NEW QUARANTINE ADVISEMENT FOR COFFENBERRY MIDDLE SCHOOL

October 30, 2020 4:15 a.m.

There is a new quarantine advisement effecting Coffenberry Middle School in Myrtle Creek.

Superintendent Kate McLaughlin of the South Umpqua School District said following Wednesday’s report that a Coffenberry student had tested positive for COVID-19, the district was initially advised by the Douglas Public Health Network that no students or staff would need to quarantine. McLaughlin said after further investigation and contract tracing, DPHN determined that it is necessary to quarantine the cohort of students and staff who had direct contact with the student who tested positive.

County Public Health Officer Dr. Bob Dannenhoffer said that decision was made after more thorough investigation by the DPHN’s epidemiology team. Dannenhoffer said the health and safety of students and staff is the highest priority. He said due to the protocols in place, the risk of spread at the school is still considered very low.

McLaughlin said while she is disappointed to quarantine the cohort, she is grateful to DPHN “…for their thoroughness and precautions to protect the greater community”. She said all contacts were notified by school staff on Thursday and will receive a follow-up call from DPHN.

In addition, DPHN notified the district that a South Umpqua High School staff member has tested positive for COVID-19. The staff member did not have direct contact with students or teaching staff. DPHN said there is no quarantine required for students or teaching staff in regards to that case.

McLaughlin said the district will keep families and the school community updated with any new information that becomes available.