Hempfield high school student tests positive for covid-19

A Hempfield Area High School student recently tested positive for the coronavirus, the district announced.

The student, who was not identified, was last in school Sept. 1, according to a letter from Superintendent Tammy Wolicki. The district was notified Tuesday of the positive test results. District officials worked with the state Department of Health to determine whether any students or staff had close contact with the infected person, and those who had were notified Tuesday night. Wolicki told the Tribune-Review a “few students” who came in close contact are quartaning.

According to Wolicki, exposure was minimal because students are seated 6 feet from each other in classrooms. Close contact is defined as being within 6 feet of someone for a period of 15 minutes or more. Safety measures, including social distancing, face coverings and hand washing are in place across the district.

Wolicki did not note any potential school closures, adding she believes the case is isolated.

According to August guidance from the state, schools do not have to close if one student or staff member tests positive for covid-19. Areas where the infected person was located should be cleaned, and district officials should work with the health department on determining next steps.

Schools would need to close for up to five days if between two and four students or staffers tested positive. If a larger number of people test positive at a specific school, the building would need to close for 14 days.

In late August, a Hempfield student-athlete tested positive for covid-19, Wolicki said at the time. The student was part of the district’s golf team. That individual and a few others who were in close contact with the person were asked to quarantine. The entire golf team was not asked to quarantine because of the nature of the sport.

Wolicki reminded parents to keep children at home if they are experiencing symptoms related to covid-19. The school nurse or principal should be notified if a family member tests positive for the virus. Any questions regarding the virus can be directed to the school nurse.