---

About Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)

COVID-19 is a respiratory illness. It is caused by a new virus. We are learning new things about this virus every day because it is new. We are working with partners to slow the spread of COVID-19, but everyone in the state has a part to play to make this happen.

Anyone of any age can get the disease. Some people may get sicker than others. People who are sick with COVID-19 can give it to others, even sometimes when they do not feel sick. Viruses don’t discriminate so avoid assumptions about who you think may be sick.

Symptoms

People with COVID-19 have had a wide range of symptoms reported – ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. Anyone can have mild to severe symptoms.

• Possible symptoms include:

  • Fever or chills
  • Cough
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Fatigue
  • Muscle or body aches
  • Headache
  • New loss of taste or smell
  • Sore throat
  • Congestion or runny nose
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Diarrhea

This list does not include all possible symptoms. CDC will continue to update this list as we learn more about COVID-19. Older adults and people who have underlying medical conditions like heart or lung disease or diabetes are at higher risk for getting very sick from COVID-19.

How does Rochester Public Schools stay up-to-date about COVID-19?

Student and staff health and safety is a top priority. We continue to monitor developments closely and receive strong support from our partners at the Minnesota Department of Health and the Minnesota Department of Education. District officials participate in regular Joint Information Center meetings with OCPHS, Olmsted Medical Center, Mayo Clinic, Federal Medical Center, City, and County Emergency Management, first responders, and others.

Additionally, the District is has been involved in a weekly statewide meeting between the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH), Minnesota Department of Education (MDE), and other school districts. Lastly, we are also receiving updates from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to ensure our school district has the latest information.