MCPS: Medical Officer Community Message Regarding Increase in Classroom Outbreaks of Covid-19

“Dear MCPS Community,

Last week, we saw an increase in classroom outbreaks of COVID-19. While the overall Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) COVID-19 Community Risk Level is LOW for Montgomery County, we should remain vigilant about preventing the spread of COVID-19, as well as other respiratory viruses, including influenza and RSV. There are a few things we can do to promote health in our school community:

  1. Continue basic health hygiene practices. This includes good hand-washing, respiratory hygiene (covering coughs or sneezes), cleaning and disinfection of shared surfaces, and staying home when sick. These actions are more important than ever, going into cold and flu season, and as we spend more time together indoors.
  2. Prepare for the upcoming flu season. We are already seeing cases of influenza in the United States. Experts predict more cases of flu compared to last year, when safety measures for COVID-19 that also prevent flu were more common, and because we may have less shared immunity after a couple of lighter flu years. Basic health hygiene practices help prevent flu. The flu vaccine reduces the risk of getting the flu and having severe symptoms from a flu infection. It is available for free for anyone older than 6 months, and is especially important for people at increased risk for flu complications.
  3. Continue to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 in our school community.
    • Vaccination is still our most effective tool for preventing serious complications, hospitalization or death due to COVID-19. The new COVID-19 boosters are designed to protect against the latest Omicron subvariants and are available at county-sponsored clinics including school-based vaccine clinics, or at retail pharmacies or other locations. As the benefit of vaccines can decrease over time, boosters are especially important for people at increased risk of complications due to COVID-19.
    • Staff and students should undergo COVID-19 testing if they develop possible symptoms of COVID-19, or after a suspected or confirmed exposure to a close contact with COVID-19. Please report all positive test results for staff and students by using the MCPS online tool and follow CDC guidelines for isolation and exposure.
    • At this time, wearing a mask in MCPS buildings and facilities is optional, unless required by quarantine and isolation guidelines. Temporary masking and testing are used to prevent further spread when outbreaks are identified at school, as an alternative to home quarantine. We continue to consider other options when individuals cannot safely or consistently wear a mask in these situations. Our community also supports all individuals who choose to wear a mask at any risk level for their own health reasons, or to protect another person.

We continue to monitor health data trends closely at the county and district level with our public health partners. Thank you for your help in keeping our MCPS community healthy and ready for in-person learning, and for a wonderful school year together.

Sincerely,

Patricia Kapunan, M.D., MPH
MCPS Medical Officer“

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FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival

Get ready to experience the vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and infectious rhythms of the Caribbean at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival! Hosted by RHU LLC, this exciting festival is set to take place on May 18, 2024, at the picturesque 16700 Barnesville Rd in Boyds, MD.

Step into a world where the Caribbean spirit comes alive! From 12:00 PM onwards, immerse yourself in a sensory journey that celebrates the unique culture, cuisine, and music of the Caribbean. Whether you're an African American, a Reggae or Soca music enthusiast, a wine lover, or part of the vibrant Caribbean diaspora, this festival promises to delight and captivate you in every way.

Let the enticing aromas of mouthwatering Caribbean dishes tantalize your taste buds. Feast on traditional delicacies prepared by expert chefs, showcasing the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the Caribbean. Indulge in flavorful jerk chicken, succulent seafood, and delectable plantain dishes that will transport you straight to the islands.

Accompanying the culinary extravaganza is a carefully curated selection of premium wines, ensuring the perfect pairing for your palate. Sip on fine wines from renowned vineyards, each sip a reflection of the Caribbean's vibrant spirit. Discover new flavors, expand your wine knowledge, and savor unforgettable moments with every glass.

As the sun sets, get ready to groove to the infectious rhythms of Caribbean music. Feel the pulsating beats of reggae, soca, dancehall, and calypso, moving your body to the lively melodies. Live performances by talented musicians and performers will keep the energy high, ensuring a night of unforgettable entertainment.

Don't miss this opportunity to embrace the Caribbean spirit and celebrate the arrival of spring in style! Tickets are available on AllEvents, so secure your spot today. Join us at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival, where cultures collide and unforgettable memories are made.

LIVE PERFORMANCES By: CULTURE Feat. Kenyatta Hill, EXCO LEVI, IMAGE BAND, RAS LIDJ REGG'GO with Special Guest SUGAR BEAR FROM E.U. & MORE! & MORE!

MUSIC By: DJ ABLAZE, DJ SMALLY & NAJ SUPREME

2 NIGHT Camping packages available: RV/CAMPER $200 | TENTS $150 Starting on Friday May 17 @ 5pm | 30 RV SPACES | 30+ TENT SPACES

KIDS 12 & UNDER FREE!!!

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