Montgomery County Public Schools Employees Test Positive for COVID-19

For Immediate Release: Monday, April 6, 2020

Two Montgomery County Public Schools food and nutrition services staff members working at the Glen Haven Elementary School meal distribution site have tested positive for COVID-19. Based on the investigation by County public health officials, the last day the employees worked at the meal distribution site was Thursday, March 26 and neither employee was showing symptoms at the time. Employees who worked in close contact with the affected employees have been asked to self-quarantine for 14 days since their last contact with the patients. The risk to community members and students is considered low, but residents who visited the Glen Haven site prior to March 26 are asked to self-monitor for symptoms.

            Consistent with CDC guidance, the employees used masks and gloves while working and handled prepackaged food in the school kitchen, which was placed on tables and in trunks of cars for students and parents. MCPS has temporarily closed the school kitchen and is utilizing a mobile delivery truck to continue food distribution at Glen Haven. 

            As of today, there are 793 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Montgomery County. Maryland has 4,045 confirmed cases of COVID-19.

            In order to prevent the spread of COVID-19, it is important for everyone to take precautions. Maryland Governor Larry Hogan issued a stay-at-home order on Monday, March 30. All residents must remain in their homes unless they are essential employees traveling to or from work, obtaining food or medicine, or seeking urgent medical care.

• Be sure to stay at least six feet away from anyone who is not a member of your household.
• Avoid gathering in groups.
• Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds.
• Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol if soap and water are not available.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using standard cleaning practices.
• Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue, your sleeve, or your elbow.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home except to get medical care.

            For the latest COVID-19 updates, visit the County’s COVID-19 website and follow Montgomery County on Facebook @MontgomeryCountyInfo and Twitter @MontgomeryCoMD.

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Release ID: 20-175
Media Contact: Julie Parker 240-777-6507