Communications Regarding COVID-19 Protocol Updates

On Friday March 1, 2024, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated its COVID-19 guidelines which ends the 5-day isolation recommendation when an individual tests positive for COVID-19.  In addition, the new guidance has consolidated COVID-19 into the Respiratory Virus Recommendations.  The new guideline communicates the measures individuals can take to protect themselves and the community from any respiratory virus (flu, RSV, cold, and COVID-19).  As such, Durham Public Schools will continue to follow CDC and our local Health Department’s guidance.  

DPS District Respiratory Virus Update

• Staying up to date on vaccinations including flu, RSV, and COVID-19 if eligible. 

• Practicing good hygiene such as hand washing and sanitizing frequently, covering sneezes and coughs, and the cleaning of high touch surfaces. 

• Stay home for severe symptoms, especially a fever of 100.4 or higher.

• Get tested for respiratory viruses (No isolation required for positive tests).

• Return to work when symptoms have improved AND you have been fever free for 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medications.

• If symptoms such as coughing and sneezing persists, wearing a well-fitted mask is strongly recommended.

• Individuals at risk for severe illness: those with underlying medical conditions, those over 65 years of age, and those with compromised immunity are strongly encouraged to mask in an effort to protect themselves.  

Additionally, DPS is no longer required to report COVID-19 cases to the health department, therefore there is no longer a need to complete the previously used google form. 

Please feel free to contact Dr. LaVerne Mattocks-Perry (laverne_mattocks@dpsnc.net; x. 21126) with any questions or concerns. 

Resources:

CDC’s Respiratory Virus Update

CDC’s Respiratory Virus Guidance

CDC’s Respiratory Virus Snapshot