Stay COVID-19 vigilant in schools as flu season approaches

As another school year unfolds, recent data from the Santa Clara County Health Department offers a glimmer of hope in the ongoing battle with COVID-19. Wastewater analysis suggests we may be entering a period of relative calm after a summer marked by high transmission rates due to the FLiRT subvariants.

This data, coupled with the CDC’s prediction of a milder winter season, presents an opportunity to reassess our approach to COVID-19 in educational settings. The summer of 2024 saw one of the highest periods of transmission yet, with peaks rivaling even the Omicron surge of 2022. However, as Dr. Monica Gandhi of UCSF notes, we are now witnessing a steep decline in COVID-19 circulation. She attributes this downturn to increased immunity from both infections and vaccinations, including new boosters released recently.

While this news is encouraging, it should not lead to complacency. The virus’s unpredictable nature and its capacity for rapid mutation mean vigilance remains crucial. As we navigate this new phase, schools must strike a delicate balance between maintaining normalcy and safeguarding public health.

The decision by many districts to treat COVID-19 like any other respiratory illness, following CDC guidelines, is understandable given the academic toll of the pandemic. Studies show high school students lagging a full year behind pre-pandemic expectations. However, COVID-19’s unique characteristics — its mutability, potential for long-term effects, and asymptomatic spread — demand a more nuanced approach.

We propose a middle ground that prioritizes in-person learning while maintaining vigilance:

1. Strongly encourage up-to-date vaccinations, including the new boosters, for all eligible students and staff. The current low vaccination rates leave our schools vulnerable to outbreaks.
2. Maintain robust testing protocols, especially when symptoms arise. COVID remains unpredictable, and testing is our best tool for early detection.
3. Reinforce the importance of staying home when sick, a simple yet effective measure in preventing spread.
4. Consider flexible attendance policies that don’t penalize students for health-related absences.
5. Continue improving ventilation in school buildings to combat not just COVID-19 but other airborne illnesses as well.
6. Be prepared to temporarily reinstate masking or other measures if local case rates unexpectedly spike.

We also call on the Centers for Disease Control to provide more nuanced, situation-specific guidance. A one-size-fits-all approach may be insufficient, especially in areas with low vaccination rates or high community spread.

As we enter this period of “COVID calm,” we have an opportunity to refine our strategies. By maintaining vigilance, adapting to changing circumstances, and leveraging the insights gained from wastewater data and epidemiological studies, we can ensure Morgan Hill schools remain both vibrant centers of learning and bastions of community health.

Your COVID-19 Checklist

As the South Valley approaches the cooler months, here’s how to stay prepared and healthy:

* Vaccinations:

– Get the latest COVID-19 booster shot, especially if you’re in a high-risk group.

– Don’t forget your annual flu shot.

* Stock up on Supplies:

– Ensure you have a supply of high-quality masks (N95 or KN95).

– Keep rapid at-home COVID-19 tests on hand.

– Stock up on cold and flu medications.

* Improve Indoor Air Quality:

– Check and replace HVAC filters regularly.

– Consider using portable air purifiers with HEPA filters.

– When possible, open windows for better ventilation.

* Stay Informed:

– Keep track of local COVID-19 rates through the Santa Clara County Health Department.

* Practice Good Hygiene:

– Continue regular hand washing.

– Use hand sanitizer when soap and water aren’t available.

* Boost Your Immune System:

– Maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables.

– Get regular exercise and adequate sleep.

– Consider vitamin D supplements, especially if you live in an area with limited winter sunlight.

Staying prepared helps ensure the safety of you, your family, and your community. The lessons of the past few years are clear: in facing COVID-19, preparation and flexibility are our strongest allies.

As we look toward a potentially milder winter, let’s use this moment of respite to strengthen our defenses for our children in school and everyone else in Morgan Hill — and build resilience for whatever challenges may lie ahead.