Posted on 05/28/2003 8:31:00 AM PDT by Lucas1
Another Catholic school is closed to students in the G.T.A. - but this one has nothing to do with a teacher lock out. Instead, more 1,500 students and staff who attend Father Michael McGivney Catholic Academy in Markham are in quarantine, after a Grade 11 pupil came down with S.A.R.S.-like symptoms last week. One of the boy's family members is a health care worker. The latest case, which officials stress is directly linked to the new cluster at North York General Hospital, affects anyone who was in the building for any reason between May 21-23. Both the boy and his parent were admitted to the facility during that period.
For now, the quarantine order only applies to those who were actually at the school itself. Family members don't have to join in the isolation or stay at home. And health authorities are quick to caution there's no need for parents to panic. "S.A.R.S. remains a serious illness and York Region staff continue to work to ensure the safety of our residents," assures Dr. Murray McQuigge, York Region public health physician consultant. "Placing individuals who attended Father Michael McGivney between May 21st and May 23rd in quarantine will prevent the further spread of S.A.R.S."
Anyone affected by the order is asked to call the Region's health department at 1-800-361-5653 for more instructions. The school will remain shuttered until next Tuesday.
May 28, 2003
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