This time of year it's easy to confuse symptoms of seasonal allergies with COVID-19. The list below compares symptoms that may overlap with COVID and seasonal allergies.

Symptom Check: Seasonal Allergies or COVID-19?

• Cough: COVID-19 usually, Allergies sometimes
• Fever: COVID-19 usualy, Allergies never
• Muscle aches: COVID-19 usually, Allergies never
• Tiredness: COVID-19 usually, Allergies sometimes
• Itchy nose, keyes, mouth, or inner ear: COVID-19 never, Allergies usually
• Sneezing: COVID-19 rarely, Allergies usually
• Sore throat: COVID-19 usually, Allergies rarely
• Runny or stuffy nose: COVID-19 usually, Allergies usually
• Pink eye (conjunctivitis): COVID-19 sometimes, Allergies sometimes
• Nausea or vomiting: COVID-19 sometimes, Allergies never
• Diarrhea: COVID-19 sometimes, Allergies never
• New loss of taste or smell: COVID-19 usually (early-often without a runny or stuffy nose,) Allergies sometimes

Also, while COVID-19 can cause shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, seasonal allergies don't usually cause these symptoms unless you have a respiratory condition such as asthma that can be triggered by pollen exposure.

Treatment of seasonal allergies may include over-the-counter or prescription antihistamines, nasal steroid sprays and decongestants, and avoidance of exposure to allergens where possible. Seasonal allergies may last several weeks.

On January 21st, 2022, Chester County Health Department (CCHD) released new guidance for K-12 schools regarding contact tracing and quarantining. Please read Mrs. Bishop's letter and review the CCHD flyers for all of the details. These flyers make it easy to understand when you should quarantine, how to isolate, and when to wear masks in public, all based upon your vaccination status.

Letter to Parents Regarding Contact Tracing and Isolation Guidelines 1-21-22

CCHD Quarantine Guidance Flyer 1-21-22

CCHD Isolation Guidance Flyer 1-21-22

Effective Monday, February 28, 2022, wearing face coverings will be recommended, but not required, for all students, staff, and visitors while inside Avon Grove Charter School buildings.  

Effective March 18, 2022: wearing face coverings will be recommended, but not required, for all students who ride a bus.

AGCS will continue to support and implement the CCHD guidance on isolation and quarantines.

The Pfizer vaccine for children ages 5-11 was approved on October 29, 2021. This is a two-dose series and we encourage you to make plans with your family now to ensure a safe and healthy winter holiday season. Vaccines remain a key strategy out of this pandemic and we are excited to enter a new phase of vaccine accessibility for young children.

• The vaccine for children ages 5-11 is effective, safe and free. It has gone through the same standard rigorous process as any vaccine that receives approval.
• The most common side effects in children are similar to those in adults including fatigue, muscle pain, headaches, and chills.
• The vaccine is specifically formulated for young children – it is not the same dose as the adult vaccines.
• Children ages 5-11 can receive the Pfizer vaccine at a number of locations to include their healthcare provider, pharmacy, Chester County Health Department, etc. Families should check with their healthcare provider or pharmacy to confirm they are providing vaccinations for youth. You are encouraged to talk to your family healthcare provider if you have questions about the vaccine.
• The Chester County Health Department will provide vaccine for children ages 5-11 and will update its vaccine website and appointment calendar for this group once they are formally approved.
• As you’re deciding where and when to schedule your child’s appointment, think through the types of environments where they feel comfortable and have successfully been vaccinated in the past. Whether it’s an individual doctor’s office or a larger-scale clinic at a local school, you know your child best.
• Families may also find a vaccine provider close to home:
  
  • Go to the CDC Vaccines Webpage 
  • Text your ZIP code to 438829 
  • Call 800-232-0233

The 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is an unprecedented event that has impacted every part of the globe. Pennsylvania has taken equally unprecedented measures to save lives and ensure the safety of its citizens. As the global spread of COVID-19 continues to evolve, Avon Grove Charter School is committed to ensuring the safety, security, and wellness of our students and staff. We remain vigilant in our efforts to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and strongly encourage our families to follow good hygiene practices and to reinforce them with their children. 

We will continue to work with the Chester County Health Department, Chester County Intermediate Unit, and a wide variety of other government, educational, and health agencies to ensure a safe and supportive learning environment.