Hand washing and regular cleaning/disinfection for Ready Schools, Safe Learners
Every layer matters. Keeping your hands clean is one of the simplest, most effective ways to prevent the spread of any contagious infection, including COVID-19.
Category: Health and safety
Much still unknown about the Omicron variant. Here’s what we know today.
The news of the Omicron variant emerging in several countries may cause many people anxiety about the unknown. The news comes on top of pandemic fatigue, as cases, hospitalizations and deaths continue, and as we continue to deal with nearly two year’s worth of disruptions to our daily lives.
If the holidays are hard: Resources for emotional and mental health
If you find it hard to fully enjoy the holidays, you are not alone. All of us are figuring out how to celebrate in ways that support our health, which is more than protecting against COVID-19. Here are some ways to support your mental and emotional health as you prepare for the holidays.
COVID-19 home tests and holiday gatherings
If you are worried about gathering with others who are unvaccinated, immunocompromised, or at higher risk of developing severe COVID-19, you may wonder about using COVID-19 home tests to find out whether you and people around you have current COVID-19 infection. While this is not currently recommended by the CDC, over-the-counter (OTC) COVID-19 testing kits are becoming more widely available.
OHA and ODE leaders discuss lifting outdoor mask mandate and launching Test to School program
Oregon Health Authority (OHA) Director Pat Allen and Oregon Department of Education (ODE) Director Colt Gill were joined by State Epidemiologist Dr. Dean Sidelinger today to announce two new developments in the course of the pandemic: lifting outdoor mask mandates and launching the Test to Stay program in public and private schools.
Ways to enjoy the holiday season safely
It’s important to celebrate and be with people you care about during the holiday season. And because all adults and many children are now eligible for vaccination, safety guidance has loosened up a little since last year.
Tips for safer shopping during the holidays
For some folks, holiday shopping is just as important as baking homemade cookies, gathering with friends and family and giving presents. And while it’s true that COVID-19 has changed the way we shop, it doesn’t have to dampen the spirit of giving. If you follow a few tips to protect yourself and others, holiday shopping […]
Tips for talking with family and friends about misinformation
At some point, you may find yourself talking with kin about the pandemic and they begin sharing information that you know to be false. Talking with someone who is sharing misinformation about COVID-19 can be frustrating and worrisome. Unfortunately, stopping the spread of that information is a tricky task that can cause hurt feelings, damage relationships and end friendships.
Face coverings are still an important layer of protection in Oregon schools
Every layer matters. Masks help students, educators, staff and volunteers from getting or spreading COVID-19.
Keeping schools safe during COVID-19: Improving airflow and circulation with outside air
Every layer matters. By improving airflow and circulation with outside air, schools can make sure that COVID-19 virus droplets are dispersed and diluted by fresh air. Also, filtration of indoor air helps remove airborne particles than can contain the COVID-19 virus.