A third Comox Valley school within a few days has been identified as having a COVID-19 exposure, according to Island Health.
On Monday, Feb. 22, the health authority listed Glacier View Secondary on 241 Beacher Drive in Courtenay as having an exposure Feb. 17 and 18.
Over the weekend, Island Health posted an advisory of COVID-19 exposures at two separate Valley schools: George P. Vanier Secondary School (on Feb. 16 and 17) and Queneesh Elementary (Feb. 17).
Mary Lee, manager of communications for School District 71 said in an email it is important to know that those who tested positive did not contract COVID-19 within the school sites.
“Nevertheless, our practice is to conduct a deep clean and sanitization of any spaces where any individuals exposed to the virus had occupied.”
RELATED: COVID-19 exposures at two Comox Valley schools: Island Health
She added while there is no requirement to change out vigilant and stringent protocols that follow the BC Centre for Disease Control, the public health officer and WorkSafe BC direction, the fact that exposures are occurring is a reality check for all as it reminds the school and larger community that the pandemic persists.
“COVID-19 is in our community. Schools are a reflection of what occurs in a community; there is no margin for leniency or complacency. We will continue to enforce our health and safety protocols and update guidelines as directed by the province.”
Lee noted Island Health recognizes the strong, effective protocols that SD71 has implemented across the district are effective at protecting staff and preventing further exposures. Occupational Health and Safety Committees meet monthly to review procedures and reinforce protocols. She added there is a committee at every school site and workplace facility within the district.
Additionally, on Feb. 19, an advisory to parents and staff was sent out for Inglis Early Learning & Preschool at 2137 Comox Ave. that a member of that workplace has tested positive for COVID-19.
According to the advisory, the individual is isolating and is in correspondence with Island Health.
“Island Health has completed contact tracing to identify any staff and attendees that need to self-isolate or self-monitor for symptoms,” the advisory reads.
The dates of the potential exposure at Inglis were Feb. 16 and 17.
photos@comoxvalleyrecord.com
Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter