March 11, 2020

Dear Parents & Guardians,

The COVID-19 outbreak continues to evolve rapidly worldwide, with more countries reporting cases and an overall increase in case numbers. We recognize that students, parents/guardians,
and employees may have concerns regarding the potential spread of the coronavirus in our school communities. To date, no laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 cases have been identified
in Manitoba. COVID-19 can spread through close contact with an infected person who is coughing or sneezing as well as by objects contaminated with the virus. Recommended prevention measures for common viruses such as seasonal influenza are also effective for the COVID-19 coronavirus.

Manitoba Health recommends the following measures:

  • Wash your hands regularly with warm water and soap for at least 15 seconds. If soap and
    water are unavailable, and if your hands are not visibly dirty, an alcohol-based hand
    cleanser may be used.
  •  Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing and sneezing, or you can cough
    or sneeze into your sleeve.
  • Avoid close contact (within two meters / six ft.) with anyone showing symptoms of a
    respiratory illness such as coughing or sneezing.
  • Stay at home when you are sick, regardless of recent travel.

We encourage parents/guardians to become aware of the facts surrounding COVID-19 and to educate their children on preventive measures. Specific health care concerns should be directed
to your health care provider or call Manitoba Health Links at 1-888-315-9257. Hanover School Division will continue to monitor the situation daily and work closely with the
Provincial Health Authority. Should the need arise, the Minister of Education and Manitoba Health will provide direction on any school closures.
For up-to-date provincial and regional information regarding COVID-19 (including travel), please visit MB Health at https://www.gov.mb.ca/health/publichealth/diseases/coronavirus.html.

Updates that are specific to HSD will be posted at https://hsd.ca/schools/health/coronavirus/.

Yours Sincerely,

Randy Dueck, Superintendent-CEO
Hanover School Division

in: General