Information about COVID-19 offered by Decorah School Superintendent Mark Lane

Decorah School District Superintendent Mark Lane is addressing the growing concerns about the COVID-19 virus.

The number of COVID-19 (aka "coronavirus") cases in the U.S. continues to rise, and all Iowa public schools are working with state and local public health partners to review and update emergency response plans to ensure each school district understands and implements regular preventative measures, and to consistently communicate with their staff, students, and families. 

This virus is getting a lot of attention, especially in the media, even though the risk of influenza is much higher than the risk of COVID-19 in Iowa right now. One of the reasons for all of the publicity is that, unlike influenza, this virus is new and currently has no vaccine or set treatment plan.

While COVID-19 has drawn attention because of national and world news, it is important to remember influenza is still circulating at high levels. Prevention measures overlap for influenza and COVID-19. Protective guidelines for both viruses include covering your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow, cleaning your hands frequently with soap and water, and staying home when you are ill.

Lane emphasized the frequent practice of these protective behaviors.  Also, because the discussion of COVID-19 can be stressful and cause children to worry, Lane offered advice for talking with children about the uncertainties surrounding the virus.  He says, "Stressful situations often cause children to worry and have many questions about why something is happening and how it can be fixed. Adults' confidence and calm attitude will help children ease their worries and feel safe and secure."

Lane goes on to highlight many ways to reinforce children's sense of safety, such as keeping activities as consistent and normal as possible, allowing children to express feelings and concerns, limiting exposure to the media and adult conversations about COVID-19, and encouraging healthy behaviors like getting enough sleep, playing outside, and eating well. It is also important to reassure children that school and health officials are doing everything they can to make sure as few people as possible get sick.