October 16, 2014 – As concerns about the spread of the Ebola disease in our country rise, we know Amarillo ISD parents understandably have questions about how the district is trying to be proactive with the safety and health security of our students and staff. The risk of an Ebola case here in Amarillo is low according to experts. However, AISD will remain diligent in monitoring the latest information on the disease, and we will communicate with our families when appropriate. We, as a district, are committed to the safety and health security of our community.
What is Amarillo ISD’s Ebola plan?
In response to growing concerns about Ebola, AISD reviewed our protocols and procedures for reducing the spread of contagious diseases. Our school nurses are actively monitoring our student body and have been directed to continue to be vigilant in the recommended methods to prevent the spread of communicable diseases. Additionally, district leaders in the custodial, busing, counseling and safety departments have also met to discuss how to better educate and prepare our staff.
In the unlikely event a student who attends AISD were to become ill with Ebola, the district would follow directives from local and state health department officials, the Centers for Disease Control, and local emergency management officials. Those agencies would be in charge of any coordinated response. While the situation at an Amarillo hospital Wednesday evening has heightened the awareness of Ebola, the health department has not issued a change of protocol for our school district at this time.
AISD’s plan to prevent the spread of any contagious illness starts with the healthy hygiene habits we encourage daily among all students and staff, such as frequent hand washing, covering your nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing, and staying home if you are ill or have a fever. We want, and need, the cooperation of our parents to help reinforce these important prevention methods at home.
Is my child at risk?
According to the medical experts and world health officials, the risk of a child contracting Ebola in Amarillo is low. It is important to know that Ebola is not spread as easily as the flu and other more common illnesses, and it is not spread by someone who is not experiencing symptoms. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website has helpful information about who is most at risk of Ebola, how the disease is transmitted, signs and symptoms, treatment, and prevention.
Is AISD prepared?
An important obligation for our school district is to try to prepare for any type of emergency. AISD has general emergency plans in place that include responses to health-related crises. The district also has a close working relationship with local law enforcement, emergency management and health officials.
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