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Novel Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)

Tags: special

Novel Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)

The first presumptive positive case of COVID-19 in Alaska was announced yesterday by Governor Dunleavy. State of Alaska epidemiologists talked to the patient and were encouraged to learn that the patient had very limited contact with others, stayed isolated since symptoms started, and followed the appropriate CDC recommendations.

DEED’s Commissioner Johnson is engaged in conversations with Governor Dunleavy, Dr. Anne Zink, and Department of Health and Social Service’s Commissioner Adam Crum on next steps in relation to schools. Commissioner Johnson and DEED staff have been in close communication with school superintendents to provide support and guidance.

DEED continues to routinely update its webpage specific to COVID-19 to provide schools with information and resources as they take steps to prepare for and mitigate exposure to COVID-19.

New resources on the website include:

CDC’s Considerations for School Closure

CDC’s Community Mitigation Strategy

CDC’s Updated Guidance for Administrators of US K-12 Schools and Childcare Programs

In addition to the school-specific guidance on our website, the CDC recommends that everyone take every day preventative actions to prevent the spread of respiratory diseases, including:

  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
  • Stay home when you are sick
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using regular household cleaning spray or wipes
  • Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing

If you have any questions or concerns relating to COVID-19 prevention and preparedness in schools, please visit DEED’s website or contact todd.brocious@alaska.gov.

The USDA did approve a request from Alaska to allow meal service during school closures, should the need arise, to minimize potential exposure to COVID-19. Please email jo.dawson@alaska.gov for more information on school meal service or to request a waiver for your school.