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Health unit responds to parents' return to school concerns Health unit responds to parents' return to school concerns Catherine Whitnall The return to school this fall is a delicate balancing act. The Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit is working closely with local school boards to ensure a safe return where students can get the educational, social and developmental benefits that come with being in that environment. "But we also need to ensure that proper public health provisions and protections are in place to make a return to class during COVID-19 safe for students, staff, families and the entire community," said manager of health promotion Lorna McCleary. A committee of representatives from local school boards and area health units including the Kawartha Pine Ridge, Trillium Lakelands, Peterborough Victoria Northumberland and Clarington Catholic District School Board, Peterborough and Hastings Prince Edward public health, Durham Region Health Department and the Simcoe-Muskoka District Health Unit meets regularly to develop safe return plans that align with provincial mandates. "No matter where we learn, live, work, shop, or play, public health must remain top of mind during COVID-19. That means we must all keep up preventive actions that protect against the spread of the virus," said McCleary reiterating hand washing, sanitizer use, physical distancing, wearing a mask or face covering and staying home when sick. While it is possible that COVID-19 cases may occur in schools despite enhanced public health measures, McCleary said an effective COVID-19 contact tracing and management system is currently in place to quickly identify cases and reduce potential exposure to others. She reminds people that most COVID-19 infections among children and youth are milder and can typically be managed at home with a full recovery. During the next few weeks, McCleary encourages parents and guardians to prepare children for the changes that await them when classes resume in September. Talking about what to expect at school can reduce any surprises and ease the transition. "Having this conversation in a way that meets children at their age and stage of life should also be kept in mind," said McCleary. This includes promoting - and practicing with children - the benefits of regular hand washing with soap and water to prevent germs, discussing rules around mask use and why wearing one is important and practicing how to put one on safely. McCleary also recommends families who opt to have their children learn at home do the same as these simple lessons are also good practice for when out in the community. Health unit responds to parents' return to school concerns https://www.mykawartha.com/news-story/10133578-health-unit-respond... 1 of 1 8/10/2020, 10:01 AM