Queen Creek school to be cleaned in wake of coronavirus case

PHOENIX (AP) — Arizona health officials say one of the state’s coronavirus cases is associated with a suburban Phoenix charter school.

The Arizona Department of Health Services said in a statement Sunday that the patient who tested positive for COVID-19 has already recovered. The patient, who was severely ill, was also not at the Queen Creek campus of American Leadership Academy during that time.

The person was not on campus during the recovery period, according to officials. As a result, the state agency believes the chance of anyone beyond a close contact getting the respiratory illness is low.

Officials say Academy’s Ironwood K-12 campus is on spring break. Administrators will use the opportunity to clean all areas of the school. The school will also incorporate hand-sanitizing stations and other routine hygiene practices upon students’ return.

COVID-19 spreads through coughing and sneezing from an infected person. Symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose and difficulty breathing.

Five cases have been confirmed in Arizona. A majority of them are in Maricopa County.

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Coronavirus (COVID-19)
How it spreads, symptoms, prevention, treatment, FAQ
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus

Arizona COVID-19 Response
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https://www.azdhs.gov/coronavirus

In order to protect yourself from a possible infection, the CDC recommends: 

  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.