The following is information provided by the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Education:

B.C. Provincial Health Officer Bonnie Henry has announced that the first case of novel coronavirus has been confirmed in B.C. Further details are available HERE.

The Ministry of Education will continue to work closely with the Ministry of Health, local health authorities and other levels of government to ensure students and school district employees are kept informed and safe. Local health authorities are closely monitoring the situation. There is ongoing monitoring throughout B.C., nationally and internationally.

All necessary precautions are being taken to prevent the spread of infection.

There is no need to restrict any activities for students or staff, or to cancel school events or field trips to public spaces or events.

The BC Centre for Disease Control recommends that to reduce the risk of exposure to novel coronavirus, employ the same measures that are taken in relation to colds and flu:

• Wash your hands frequently (it is the single most effective way of reducing infection spread).
• Practice other good hygiene habits: do not touch your face/eyes/mouth with your hands, and cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze or cough (ideally with a disposable tissue or the crease of your elbow).
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched workspace surfaces.
• Maintain good general health (eat a balanced diet, get enough sleep, exercise in moderation).
• Stay home if you are sick.
• Contact 8-1-1 (HealthLink BC) or your health care provider for questions about your personal health situation.
  

Further information about novel coronavirus are available on the BC Centre for Disease Control website.

Please note: School districts do not have the authority to make public health decisions. If steps are taken in relation to a public health concern, it is at the direction of the Ministry of Health and local health authorities. At this time, school districts have not been directed to take steps in relation to coronavirus. The North Vancouver School District is in regular communication with the Ministry of Education, Vancouver Coastal Health and school districts across the province.

Please visit the school district website for further updates.