Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Orange County Public Schools is in constant communication with the Florida Department of Health and Department of Education regarding responses to COVID-19. As of early March 29, 4,246 cases were confirmed in Florida and 56 residents have died. In Orange County, there have been 246 cases, 46 people hospitalized and four deaths. From Friday to Saturday, new cases increased from 678 to 737 in Florida and decreased from 51 to 35 in Orange County.
OCPS is following appropriate protocols to protect staff at schools and work sites. The district’s current cleaning products are proven effective against the Coronavirus (the virus that causes COVID-19).
When any person exhibits any of the symptoms listed below, he or she will be encouraged to stay home. Isolation limits the spread of the virus and will protect the overall health and wellness of others.
Anyone with symptoms should call a medical provider for guidance on what to do. Medical providers will ask questions to screen people for COVID-19 or other illnesses, including the "common flu" which is also prevalent this time of year.
What is the Coronavirus (COVID-19)?
A virus that causes diseases of varying severities, ranging from the common cold to serious respiratory disease
How does it spread?
Between people who are in close contact
Cough or sneeze droplets
Touching your eyes, nose, or face with hands after touching an object containing the virus
What are the symptoms?
Fever
Cough
Shortness of breath
Severe illness
How do you protect yourself?
Avoid close contact with people (six feet apart) and especially those 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
The Center for Disease Control (CDC) does not recommend that people who
are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including COVID-19
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, scrub thoroughly under nails and between fingers, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing
If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol
Where can you find additional information about COVID-19?
COVID-19 is a new disease. The CDC and The Florida Department of Health are your best source of information about the disease.
Center for Disease Control (CDC) COVID-19 Information
Florida Department of Health COVID-19 Information
The Florida Dept. of Health’s #COVID19 Call Center is 1 (866) 779-6121 available at all times (24/7) or you can email
COVID-19@flhealth.gov with your questions.
In support of the state’s efforts, the Florida Department of Health in Orange County (DOH-Orange) has established a Coronavirus Call Center phone number for Orange County, Florida residents. The phone number is 407-723-5004. The DOH-Orange Call Center is available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.