How the virus is thought to spread:
• Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
• Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
• People are thought to be most contagious when they are most symptomatic (the sickest).
• Some spread might be possible before people show symptoms, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.
• It may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, possibly their eyes, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.
Prevention:
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• 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.
• Don’t touch your face.
Symptoms:
• Fever
• Cough
• Shortness of breath
• The CDC recommends you seek medical advice if you develop symptoms, and have been in close contact with a person known to have COVID-19 or if you live in or have recently been in area with ongoing spread of COVID-19.
AWFC’s Response:
• If you have any symptoms, stay home until you are fever free for at least 24 hours.
• Do not visit any foster home or conduct training if you have any symptoms.
• If there is an issue with sick leave availability, please staff with your Director. Directors, please contact Marni and/or Thelma.
• Each office will set up a Disinfection Station, which will include:
o Poster of reminders of prevention;
o Hand sanitizer; and
o Disposable antibacterial wipes.
• Please remember to wipe down common area surfaces often.
• Come up with an emergency respite plan for each family should one of the foster children or foster parents exhibit symptoms.
• Send a copy of Poster of Prevention to every family.
• Ask families at each home visit if anyone in the home has exhibited symptoms.
• If anyone is diagnosed with or has had confirmed exposure to COVID-19, inform Marni and Ashleigh.
• Remember, minimum standards states: “If a child in your care contracts a communicable disease that the law requires you to report to the Department of State Health Services as specified in 25 TAC Chapter 97, Subchapter A, (relating to control of Communicable Diseases).” Licensing and the CPS worker must be notified within 24 hours of becoming aware the child has COVID-19.
Other Links to Articles and Information
NCTSN Article Talking To Kids
Recreation Program