The virus that causes COVID-19 is a new coronavirus that has spread throughout the world. The symptoms of COVID-19 can range from mild to severe. The virus is primarily spread from person to person, but one can also become exposed when touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching one’s eyes, nose and/or mouth. The more common modes of transmission are from respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks.

Current CDC recommendations on how to protect yourself and others from COVID-19:

There is currently no vaccine to protect us against COVID-19. The best way to protect yourself is to avoid being exposed to the virus that causes COVID-19.

Stay home as much as possible and avoid close contact with others. Social distancing is 6 feet apart. https://www.nj.gov/health/cd/documents/topics/NCOV/COVID-19-SocialDistancing_031820.pdf

The CDC recommends wearing a cloth face covering that covers your nose and mouth in public settings. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/diy-cloth-face-coverings.html

Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily (door knobs, countertops, etc).

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/downloads/2019-ncov-factsheet.pdf

There is a difference between isolation and quarantine. Click on the following link for more information. https://www.nj.gov/health/cd/documents/topics/NCOV/COVID-19-IsolationVsQuarantine.pdf

Health actions to protect you and your family. https://www.nj.gov/health/cd/documents/topics/NCOV/COVID-19_health_actions_general%20public_031920.pdf

How can I prepare to self isolate? https://www.nj.gov/health/cd/documents/topics/NCOV/COVID-19-PreparetoSelfIsolate_031820.pdf

Instructions for persons who test positive for COVID-19:

• https://www.nj.gov/health/cd/documents/topics/NCOV/COVID_Instructions_Persons_Who_Test_Positive.pdf

Instructions for persons who test negative for COVID-19:

• https://www.nj.gov/health/cd/documents/topics/NCOV/COVID19_instructions_persons_who_test_negative.pdf

The State of NJ COVID-19 information hub: https://covid19.nj.gov/

COVID-19 and children: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/faq.html#COVID-19-and-Children

• https://www.co.bergen.nj.us/departments-and-services/about-health-services

• https://www.nj.gov/health/cd/topics/ncov.shtml

• https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

• https://cfanj.org/ - The Center for Food Action

• https://englewoodnjchamber.com/ - List of local restaurants/businesses that are open

• https://www.state.nj.us/health/fhs/wic/participants/find-wic/#bergen

• http://www.cityofenglewood.org/health

• https://nhcac.org/ North Hudson Community Action -- Please check site for appointments

• https://pmpediatrics.com/location/pm-pediatrics-new-jersey-paramus-2/ - PM Pediatrics

• http://officeofconcern.com/ - Food Pantry at St. Cecilia’s

• 866-202- HELP (4357) - NJ Mental Health Cares - open 7days/week from 8am-8pm

• Bergen Family Center

Another area of continued concern:

The New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) encourages healthcare providers to continue vaccinating patients whenever possible. Slowing or stopping access to immunizations increases our risk for vaccine-preventable diseases.

Please be advised that as per the Englewood Department of Health and the CDC, your child(ren) will be excluded from school if not-compliant with immunizations upon return to school. If you have any questions or if your child(ren) is missing any vaccines, please contact your child(ren)’s school nurse via email at your earliest convenience.