Dear Eatontown Public Schools Community Member:
Over the course of the last two school years, students and staff have had to quarantine from work or school when they are considered a close contact of a positive COVID-19 individual. The length of quarantine time has varied based upon COVID-19 activity levels from 10-14 days.
As of yesterday afternoon, the CDC and NJ Department of Health released new quarantine guidance to school districts across New Jersey. The guidance states, “while a 14-day quarantine period is optimal, NJ DOH considers the CDC options to shorten quarantine to be acceptable alternatives in most community settings. Options for shortening quarantine only apply if no COVID-19 symptoms develop during the quarantine period. If symptoms develop, the individuals should self-isolate, contact a healthcare provider and/or the local health department, and be tested for COVID-19. Additionally, individuals should continue to self-monitor for symptoms for the full 14 days.”
Beginning Monday, December 20, 2021, acceptable options to shorten quarantine include:
1. 7-Day quarantine with testing: unvaccinated persons can end quarantine after Day 7 after receiving a negative COVID-19 test result collected between Day 5 and Day 7. Quarantine cannot be discontinued earlier than after Day 7.
2. 10-Day quarantine without testing: Unvaccinated persons can end quarantine after Day 10 if they have not been tested for COVID-19.
Fully vaccinated individuals do not have to quarantine after contact with someone who had COVID-19 unless they have symptoms.
Last but not least, as of December 24th, the district will no longer enforce the domestic travel quarantine consistent with state guidance.
Although these changes are not perfect, they do allow an opportunity for more students and staff to return to school or work earlier than before. The district will continue to monitor the guidance for future changes and communicate them as needed. If you have any questions, contact your school nurse or principal.
Again, thank you for your patience and cooperation during these challenging times.
Sincerely,
Scott T. McCue
Superintendent of Schools