MUSCATINE, Iowa–Muscatine Community School District reported their first student case of COVID-19 Sept. 2. One Muscatine High School student tested positive for the virus. Because the student only attended in person class for one day and because classmates and staff wore masks, school and public health officials decided that no other individuals or additional deep cleaning measures would prove necessary.

Muscatine High School staff and families received a letter from the district informing them of the case, which follows below in its entirety:

We received notification that a Muscatine High School student has tested positive for COVID-19. While we must protect the privacy of the person involved, we believe it is best to communicate transparently with you.

Because the student was only at the high school for one day, there was minimal contact, and masks were worn, the Muscatine County Public Health Department has concluded there is little risk to other students or staff, thus, there will be no need to quarantine individuals. All classes will continue as usual. Muscatine High School’s school nurse has also been in contact with staff and students who may have been near the exposed individual.

We will also continue to follow all COVID-related safety procedures including requiring masks if social distancing cannot be maintained. Our custodial staff will continue to deep clean and sanitize classrooms and high touch areas each evening. We will also continue stressing the importance of thorough hand washing.

As a reminder, COVID-19 is transmitted through person-to-person contact and through the exchange of respiratory droplets. Symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough and shortness of breath. If you or any member of your family exhibit these symptoms, please contact your medical provider for advice immediately. Symptoms usually appear 2-14 days after exposure.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends the following best practices to help prevent the spread of COVID-19:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
• Avoid close contact with those who are sick.
• Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your sleeve.
• Avoid touching your eyes, mouth and nose.
• Disinfect frequently touched surfaces and objects.
• Stay at home when you are sick.
• Practice social distancing, leaving at least six feet between you and other people.
• Wear a cloth mask in public when you cannot social distance.

Our greatest priority is the safety of our students, staff and community members. It is important to remember that children are greatly influenced by the reactions of adults when facing difficult circumstances. I encourage everyone to remain calm and to be empathetic and respectful to those affected.

We are grateful for the opportunity to serve you and your family, especially as we face this challenging situation together. We continue to ask for your support of Muscatine High School and the Muscatine Community School District by stressing the importance of the COVID-19 mitigation procedures in place so that we may keep our students and staff safe. We are all in this together.

Sincerely,

Terry Hogenson
Principal

Clint Christopher
Superintendent