Princeton High School has second COVID-19 case

PRINCETON — Princeton High School has its second positive COVID-19 case.

PHS informed its staff and families via email Monday evening that it now has two positive cases. The first case was announced last week.

"We are coordinating our efforts with the Bureau County Health Department to promptly identify and monitor individuals who have been in close contact with the COVID-19 positive individual to prevent further spread within our school and community. These individuals will be contacted directly," PHS officials said in the email.

"The health and safety of students and staff is our highest priority, and we recognize the uncertainty and concern regarding the evolving COVID-19 pandemic. We are following guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as well as the state and local health departments for best practices and procedures to protect everyone’s health."

PHS said it will continue to enforce safe practices to prevent, promptly identify and respond to potential COVID cases, as follows:

• Students and staff who are ill with COVID-like symptoms will promptly be placed in a separate supervised area away from others until they can be sent home.

• Students are required to wear face coverings at all times, as previously directed and per school policy.

• Staff are required to wear face coverings at all times while in contact with students and other staff in the facility.

• Continuously sanitizing high-touch surfaces including door handles, stair rails, sink faucets, etc.

• Reinforcing to students the importance of face coverings, social distancing and proper handwashing.

As it receives more information from the Illinois Department of Public Health and other entities, PHS said it will implement additional recommendations and guidelines.

PHS reminds everyone they should monitor their health and stay at home if they develop symptoms. Individuals who become ill should contact their health care provider to determine if testing is needed. Anyone who develops severe symptoms should seek medical care immediately.

If a student has had close contact with a known case of COVID-19, PHS advises parents their child should stay at home and notify your primary healthcare provider, Princeton High School and your local health department.