RICHMOND, Va. -- After a Richmond Public Schools employee tested positive for COVID-19, food distribution at an elementary school will switch to curbside pick-up next week out of "abundance of caution," school district officials announced Saturday.
"We learned late yesterday that an RPS employee who was present at Broad Rock Elementary School on June 1 has tested positive for COVID-19," Superintendent Jason Kamras wrotein a statement.
Officials urged anyone who was at Broad Rock Elementary School on Monday to self-isolate until June 15, based on health department guidance, and to reach out to their doctor if they experience any symptoms.
To register for free testing from the Richmond City Health District, call 804-205-3501.
"Though the employee was not a part of the Broad Rock food distribution efforts, out of an abundance of caution, starting on Monday, Broad Rock will have new staff and volunteers for its meals program, and will shift to curbside pick-up to minimize contact," Kamras said. "Additionally, families who are uncomfortable picking up food at Broad Rock next week are more than welcome to do so at Boushall Middle School or any of our other food sites, all of which can be found here."
Officials said the employee, who was asymptomatic at the time, is in isolation at home per CDC guidelines.
"For health privacy reasons, we cannot release the name of the staff member, but please keep this individual and their family in your thoughts and prayers," Kamras wrote.
Last week parents and students who picked-up computers or supplies from Richmond’s Mary Munford Elementary School over the last two weeks were sked to self-isolate for 14 days after Principal Greg Muzik, who was at those events, tested positive for COVID-19.
More than 1,590 people have tested positive for COVID-19 in Richmond, according to health department data. Sixty-five new cases were reported Saturday.
Nearly 49,400 cases of the virus have been reported in Virginia, as of Saturday's update from the Virginia Department of Health.
Depend on CBS 6 News and WTVR.com for the most complete coverage of the COVID-19 pandemic.
COVID-19 Precautions
Most patients with COVID-19 have mild to moderate symptoms. However, in a small proportion of patients, COVID-19 can lead to more severe illness, including death, particularly among those who are older or those who have chronic medical conditions.
COVID-19 spreads primarily through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Symptoms include fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. Symptoms appear within 14 days of being exposed to an infectious person.
Virginia health officials urged the following precautions:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer only if soap and water are not available.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.Stay home when you are sick.
- Avoid contact with sick people.Avoid non-essential travel.