Dear SDMA Families and Staff,

Below is an important update to the length of required COVID-19 isolation in the School District of the Menomonie Area. 

On December 27, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced that it has shortened its recommended quarantine period to five days for individuals with COVID-19, as long as they are asymptomatic or they have not had a fever for at least 24 hours (see attachment from the Dunn County Health Department).

After receiving communications from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, the Dunn County Health Department, and the school district's medical advisor, effective immediately, the SDMA will reduce its required isolation period from 10 days to five days for students and staff who have a confirmed case of COVID-19. Individuals returning from isolation are asked to wear a mask when around others (including extra curricular activities) for the first five days of their return to school.

We know that the changes in recommendations from the CDC and public health officials can be frustrating. COVID-19 is still a new virus and researchers are learning more about it every day. In this case, the change was due to evidence showing that, in general, transmission of the virus to others occurs 1-2 days before and 2-3 days after an individual experiences symptoms.

Thank you once again for your support and flexibility. 

Sincerely,

Joe Zydowsky