Student At Hazen HS Tests Positive For Coronavirus, School Closed

RENTON, WA — Hazen High School in Renton will remain closed for the remainder of the week after a student tested positive for the coronavirus known as COVID-19.

The district announced Tuesday on Facebook it will close March 4 to prevent the spread of the virus.

Hazen said it will remain closed through at least March 6, and will ultimately await further guidance of Public Health – Seattle & King County.

The school district said it is working now to determine who the student came in contact with and guarantee it is safe for students and staff to return to school next week.

"We understand this guidance has changed and recognize the hardship this places on our students and families. Our top priority is to ensure the safety of our school community," the district said in its Facebook post. "School will be closed through the end of this week. Public Health will provide us with guidance for the following week."

The district earlier this week announced it would close Hazen High School on Monday because a student and his or her parent were waiting on results after being tested for COVID-19.

It's unclear if the student mentioned earlier in the week is the same student who now has the confirmed case of COVID-19.

In a press conference Wednesday, King County public health officials said they do not currently recommend school closures unless a case of COVID-19 has been confirmed, but districts still may close if they feel it's in the best interest of students and staff.

Seattle & King County Public Health Director Patty Hates said children are not believed to be a high-risk group when it comes to coronavirus, and officials don't want to interrupt learning unless they know there is a direct risk of students contracting the virus.

This story could be updated.

Public Health Guidance On Virus Prevention:

• Do not go to an emergency room unless absolutely essential. Those with symptoms including a cough, fever, or other respiratory issues are advised to contact their regular doctor first.
• If you're sick, stay home.
• Commit to excellent personal hygiene, including regular handwashing, and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

Monitor the latest information on COVID-19 in Washington and across the United States:

• Public Health Seattle-King County
• Snohomish County Health District
• Washington State Department of Health
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention