Coronavirus disease is a respiratory illness that can spread from person to person like the flu.

Channelview ISD follows the guidance and expertise of national and local health officials to help protect our students and staff from all communicable diseases. Channelview ISD will continue to be in communication with our local partners and stand ready to take all appropriate measures. School Health Services is closely monitoring all developments and is in communication with public health officials.  

Our campus custodial staff will also continue to disinfect campuses with hospital grade products to help offset the spread of communicable illnesses, but it takes all of us to ensure healthy school environments. As a reminder, we are still in the midst of cold and flu season, and it’s important for families to take preventative measures to safeguard themselves from the spread of communicable diseases. Channelview ISD will continue to communicate the importance of frequent handwashing, covering a cough or sneeze, not touching one’s eyes, nose and mouth, and staying home when ill.

This virus was first detected in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China. The first infections were linked to a live animal market, but the virus is now spreading from person-to-person. It’s important to note that person-to-person spread can happen on a continuum. Some viruses are highly contagious (like measles), while other viruses are less so.

The virus that causes COVID-19 seems to be spreading easily and sustainably in the community (“community spread”) in some affected geographic areas. Community spread means people have been infected with the virus in an area, including some who are not sure how or where they became infected.

People who live in, or have recently travelled to mainland China or Iran, or had contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19 are at higher risk of contracting COVID-19. Some people may be at higher risk of infection, such as people who have other illnesses that suppress the immune system or make them more vulnerable to respiratory disease. This includes people with lung disease or diabetes, those who have suppressed immune systems, and the elderly.

Practice everyday preventive actions to help reduce your risk of getting sick and remind everyone in your home to do the same. These actions are especially important for older adults and people who have severe chronic medical conditions:

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home when you are sick, except to get medical care.
• Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue and throw the tissue in the trash.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing; going to the bathroom; and before eating or preparing food.
• If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and objects
  (e.g., tables, countertops, light switches, doorknobs, and cabinet handles).