Whitehouse ISD
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Christopher Moran, Ed.D
​ Superintendent
March 3, 2020
Dear Whitehouse ISD Family,
Whitehouse ISD is closely monitoring the news and reports about COVID-19, or CoronaVirus, that were initially associated with an outbreak in China
and now in more than 30 countries, including the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) along with the World Health
Organization, are monitoring COVID-19 cases closely and providing updated guidance to federal, state, and local health officials.
The Texas Department of Health indicates that the risk for all Texans remains low. Whitehouse ISD is coordinating prevention efforts with the Northeast
Texas Public Health District (NET Health) and continues to monitor the situation and prepare for the possibility of confirmed cases closer to home in East
Texas or our district. As we have done in the past with other outbreaks of viruses, WISD is prepared to implement and follow protocols and guidelines as
directed by health authorities if necessary.
COVID-19 is believed to be spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, much in the way the flu and other respiratory viruses
spread. Patients with COVID-19 have reportedly had mild to severe respiratory illness. Symptoms are thought to appear within two to 14 days after
exposure and consist of fever, cough, and difficulty breathing - similar to the seasonal flu. Preliminary information suggests that older adults and persons
with underlying health conditions or compromised immune systems could be at greater risk for severe illness from COVID-19.
In situations like these where media reports may cause concerns among our families, it is best to rely on factual information from reliable sources. Here
are links to information about COVID-19 from local, state, national and international organizations:
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Northeast Texas Public Health District
https://www.mynethealth.org/index.php
Texas Department of State Health Services
https://www.dshs.texas.gov/
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
https://www.cdc.gov/
World Health Organization
https://www.who.int/

The best precautions we can take currently are the same basic prevention measures everyone should follow to avoid the flu and other common seasonal
respiratory illnesses:
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Everyone 6 months and older is encouraged to get a flu shot.
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, 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. Keeping a sick child at home prevents the spread of illness in the school community and allows the child an
opportunity to rest and recover.
Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

You should also know that throughout the school year, and in the winter months especially, our WISD team works closely with our school nurses to
monitor illnesses, such as the flu. We also work with our custodial teams to ensure our campuses receive more frequent and thorough cleanings during
flu season, especially in high-traffic, high-touch areas.
As we continue to be in contact with local health officials and monitor the COVID-19 situation, we will provide updates to our community should it
become necessary. As always, I thank you for your support of our belief that everyone has the right to a safe and caring environment.
Sincerely,

Christopher Moran, Ed.D.