December 23, 2021
Shrewsbury Families & Staff:
As we head into the December vacation, please note the following information regarding COVID-19 issues:
If you or your child comes down with symptoms: If you or your child becomes symptomatic over break, COVID testing is strongly recommended. If you or your child tests positive, follow Massachusetts Department of Public Health isolation guidelines. Notify anyone who may have been a close contact (within 6 feet for 15 minutes or more, indoors) of the positive test and the need to follow quarantine guidelines. Isolation for positive individuals is 10 days from the start of symptoms, or the positive test date, whichever comes first (that is considered "Day Zero"). Children who test positive will not be cleared to return to school until “Day 11”. If using a home rapid test, following up with a PCR/molecular test to confirm the result is recommended.
If you or your child is a close contact: If you are notified that you or your child has been in close contact with someone who tested positive, consider the following:
- Close contacts who are fully vaccinated (2 weeks after the second dose of Pfizer or Moderna, or 1 dose of J &J vaccine) are exempt from quarantine, and should monitor for symptoms for 14 days from last contact with the positive individual. If any symptoms develop (even mild), fully vaccinated close contacts should be COVID tested and quarantine while waiting for test results.
- Close contacts who are NOT fully vaccinated should follow MDPH quarantine guidelines (linked above). Testing on day 5 after contact with the positive individual will allow for release from quarantine on day 8 if asymptomatic.
No SPS nurse availability over the school vacation: SPS school nurses will not be available for contact tracing or other COVID related questions over the school vacation, and will follow up regarding COVID cases as needed when we return to school. If your child tests positive or is a close contact outside of school after the close of school today and you have immediate questions, please reach out to the Central Massachusetts Regional Public Health Alliance at the Worcester Division of Public Health at 508-799-8531, option 5, and leave a message for a call back.
Travel over the school vacation: There is currently no travel order in effect in Massachusetts. Click here for information on domestic and international travel and recommendations on when not to travel.
Best wishes for a happy and healthy school vacation!