West Iron reports positive COVID case

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By Jerry DeRoche
IRON RIVER — On Sept. 16, the West Iron County Public School District reported that a student had tested positive for COVID-19. The district received notification of the positive test result from the Dickinson-Iron District Health Department.
    Superintendent Chris Thomson said the student, who was not named, had not attended West Iron schools since Sept. 8.
    The district posted a letter to parents, staff and community members on its website. The letter, signed by Thomson, said safety was of the utmost importance.
    “We are working directly with county health officials to address this situation,” the letter stated. “... (I)f you or your student is identified as a close contact and needs to quarantine, you will be notified by the health department. If you are not identified as a close contact, you will not hear from them.”
    The DIDHD and West Iron began that process on the day of the announcement as those students who had been close contacts of the student in school were sent home for quarantine.
    The West Iron County Schools will continue to clean and disinfect surfaces inside all district schools, the letter stated.
    “As more cases are being confirmed across the region, including our community, it is important to be sensible, but to also be vigilant. Symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough and shortness of breath. If you or any family member exhibit these symptoms, please contact your medical provider for advice immediately. Symptoms usually appear in two to 14 days after exposure.”
    According to the DIDHD, Iron County has 62 confirmed cases and two probable cases as of Sept. 18, a nearly 170 percent increase since mid-August. On Aug.  20, the DIDHD reported 23 total cases in Iron County, including one death.
    The district listed the recommendations of the CDC in helping to prevent the spread of the virus, including hand washing, practice social distancing and avoid touching eyes, mouth and nose.
    “Our greatest priority is the safety of our students, staff and community members,” Thomson said in the letter. “Please continue to take necessary precautions to protect yourself and those around you. It is important to remember that children are greatly influenced by the reactions of adults when facing difficult circumstances. I encourage everyone to remain calm and to be empathic and respectful to those affected.”