Students, parents may have been exposed to COVID-19 at Willard Elementary School

LONG BEACH, Calif. - Parents and students in the Willard Elementary School community may have been exposed to the coronavirus at school, officials with the city of Long Beach warned.

The exposure would have happened between March 12 and 13, officials said in a statement sent to parents and faculty members. Additional details surrounding the potential exposure were not immediately disclosed.

As a precaution, the Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services (Health Department), sent information to parents and staff regarding how to best protect yourself, your loved ones and how to prevent the spread of the disease.

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Coronavirus, or COVID-19, is a viral infection that can spread person-to-person through when people cough or sneeze.

Symptoms of the virus include fever, cough, and shortness of breath, and can cause more serious illness for older adults, individuals with compromised immune systems, and chronic conditions.

Currently, there is no known treatment or vaccine available for COVID-19.

"If you or your child experience these symptoms, please contact your healthcare provider and let them know that you may have been exposed to COVID-19. Do not go to a healthcare facility without calling ahead. If you need emergency care, let 911 know you may have been exposed to COVID-19," the Health Department wrote in the letter sent to parents.

Why social distancing can save lives amid COVID-19 pandemic

Social distancing is not only about preventing the illness itself, but rather, slowing the rate at which people get sick. 

Due to the ongoing spread of COVID-19, health officials say it is important to practice social distancing and following recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The CDC says it is important to wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after being in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. It is also important to take steps to protect others such as staying home if you’re sick, except to get medical care. You should cover your coughs and sneezes, clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily.

The city said you can visit its website for additional information and resources.

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