State lifts COVID response measures for schools
Families,
The COVID-19 federal public health emergency declaration ended on May 11, 2023, and as such the Oregon Health Authority has updated its COVID-19 Response measures for the general population, including K-12 schools. These updates include changes to positive case reporting and isolation time period.
Starting Friday, May 12, 2023:
- Students attending Bend-La Pine Schools who test positive for COVID-19 will no longer be required to isolate for 5 days. Students may return to school/school sponsored activities when they have been fever free for 24 hours (without the use of fever-reducing medications) and symptoms have improved. “Individuals who test positive are asked to avoid contact with individuals at increased risk for severe disease, including older adults and those with underlying medical conditions; and consider masking for 10 days.” - OHA
- Reporting positive cases to the schools is no longer required.
COVID-19 Home Tests
Bend-La Pine Schools will continue to have iHealth COVID-19 test kits available for use while supplies last through OHA. Parents/guardians should contact their student’s school to obtain tests.
Vaccination Information
COVID-19 vaccination continues to provide significant protection against serious illness and hospitalization. For more information on the COVID-19 vaccine and vaccination locations, visit: the Deschutes County Health Services COVID-19 Vaccine home page.
For more information on the updated OHA COVID-19 response measures, visit the OHA news release: State lifts COVID-19 response measures as federal emergency ends.