Dear Linn Public School Families,

Today, I was notified that a staff member at Linn Schools has tested positive for COVID-19.

Per our protocol, all areas of the building that the individual has used in the past several days has been thoroughly clean and disinfected. We will continue taking any necessary steps to protect the health of our students and staff. The individual who has tested positive for COVID-19 will not be allowed to return to school until released by the health department. Staff, student, and community exposure has been minimal since the onset of symptoms and our normal routine is not expected to be interrupted or altered.

The symptoms of COVID-19 are similar to the regular seasonal influenza and include fever, coughing, and shortness of breath. Some have reported additional symptoms, such as a runny nose, sore throat, nausea, lethargy, lack of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea. Individuals who need medical care should call their medical provider to report their illness prior to seeking care at a clinic, physician’s office, or hospital. Parents of students exhibiting flu-like symptoms or staff exhibiting flu-like symptoms are asked to contact a school nurse, local health authorities or the appropriate Department of Health.

We are closely monitoring this situation and will provide you with updates as we know more. If you have questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,

John Whetzal

Superintendent of Schools

USD 223 Barnes-Hanover-Linn