March 3, 2020 – The Helena Public Schools continues to work with local and state health officials in monitoring COVID-19 (Coronavirus) in the Pacific Northwest, Montana, and locally in the Helena area.  To date, Montana’s only patient under investigation tested negative for COVID-19.  However, the developments in nearby Washington have everyone on high alert.

As a school district we work closely with our partners at Lewis & Clark Public Health and the Montana Department of Public Health & Human Services.  Should we experience a case of COVID-19 locally with the potential of impacting our students and employees, we would partner with local health officials to take the necessary actions and precautions.  For the time being, we remain vigilant and ready should our local area become impacted by the virus.

We also want to remind students and families it is important to follow common-sense preventative actions not just for COVID-19 but for colds and the flu.  Students should remain at home when sick; appropriately cover coughs and sneezes; and wash hands often.  The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or using a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.

Please continue to monitor the updates from Lewis & Clark Public Health and the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services for the most accurate, up-to-date information.