Interior Health has confirmed a positive COVID-19 case at J.A. Laird Elementary School in Invermere. According to the health authority, the positive case was from a student at the school on September 14th and 15th.
Previously speaking to Interior Health about potential exposures in schools, the health authority told MyEastKootenayNow.com that if there is a case, contact tracing will begin immediately.
Interior Health said the following steps are taken when a COVID-19 case is confirmed at a local school:
- We begin the process of contact tracing to determine how the person was infected and who they were in close contact with
- We identify and notify close contacts who may be at an increased risk, and advise them to self isolate and monitor for symptoms for 14 days
- We work closely with the school and school district throughout the case and contact tracing process to maintain close communication with the school community
“When a case of COVID-19 is confirmed, IH public health will work quickly to determine close contacts, and will make direct contact with parents/guardians of students who are considered to be at risk.”
MORE: COVID-19 School Exposures (Interior Health)
The health authority said it’s important to note that a case of COVID-19 exposure, does not mean every student or staff member at the school is at risk.
“If you do not receive a phone call or letter from Interior Health, your child should continue to attend school.”
MORE: COVID-19 Health Assessment Tool (B.C. Government)
Anyone that has not directly heard from Interior Health should continue about their daily habits as normal, ensuring they take necessary precautions as they would before.
MORE: COVID-19 Communication (School District 6)
