We write with a further update relating to the COVID 19 virus. We continue to monitor the situation carefully and to follow the latest information and advice issued by the Dutch National Health Authorities communicated through the GGD South Limburg. The Dutch and German Authorities are in constant communication with each other regarding the developments in the border regions. We are also in regular contact with JFC HQ Command.
We have been informed that JFC HQ Brunssum will not close Morale and Welfare facilities or suspend any group MW activities and that the Command will issue a Chief of Staff Order today for personnel. We ask that you please read this second information letter carefully.
SELFKANT AREA:
Families living in the Selfkant area and travelling to the Netherlands for school or work need to take notice of and follow German instructions. If you have been specifically asked to stay in quarantine you will need to follow this instruction. Currently this applies to 300 people.
Families with a recent travel activity (less than two weeks ago) to areas with a wide spread transmission of the COVID 19 virus (see below) need to report to their General Practitioner (GP) / Doctor if they experience ill health such as fever (38C or higher) in combination with coughing and respiratory problems. The GP will contact the National/Regional Health Authorities to decide upon further testing for coronavirus and possible further actions. This procedure is in accordance with National Health Authorities protocols (RIVM).
Schools that are closed in the Heinsberg Area is a precaution measure. Schools in the surrounding area in Germany are open as usual.
INFORMATION FOR SCHOOLS AND DAY CENTERS:
The advice from the Health Authorities remains the same as when we last wrote to you on 26 February. Currently it is not necessary for schools and day care centers to take actions such as closing the school or the center. There is no reason to prevent or refuse children who have visited Germany in the last few weeks to come to school or the day care center.
Employees and or children and families living in Germany should take notice of the information of the German Authorities and follow their instructions. The situation in Germany might be different and different advice and instructions may have to be followed. We ask you to inform AIS Directorate and your National Section if these instructions may prevent you from coming to school.
FAMILIES RETURNING FROM OTHER EUROPEAN AREAS:
If you are returning from areas which have been identified as COVID 19 virus infected areas and you or anybody in your family, company or travel group has symptoms of coughing, fever and respiratory health related issues you need to contact your GP/Doctor immediately. The doctor will contact the National Health Authorities who will decide on possible further actions. We ask you to inform AIS Directorate and your National Section if these instructions may prevent you from coming to school.
Areas identified as infected areas:
China (including Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan) – Singapore – South-Korea – Iran – Italy: the municipalities of Codogno, Sesto Cremonese, Pizzighettone, Soresina, Sesto S.G., Pieve Porto Morone, Casalpusterlengo, Castiglione d’Adda, Fombio, Maleo, Somaglia, Bertonico, Terranova dei Passerini, Castelgerundo and San Fiorana (Lombardy Region) and V’o Euganeo, Mira (Veneto Region).
The most important advice from JFC Medical Facility on base is:
- Keep good hygiene routines (previously stated in AIS letter and guidance on 26 February);
- STAY HOME when you are showing symptoms of respiratory illness such as coughing and sneezing.
- Do not visit a GP/Doctor or First Aid Center but CALL your GP/Doctor or GGD Heerlen on 088-880 5000 or 088-880 5070.
- Keep this virus outside of school and JFCBS.
AIS will be open as usual on Monday 2 March. We will update on Sunday 1 March ONLY if the situation changes and this would be through our website and social media. Please continue to follow our website and twitter messages.
AIS Directorate
Letter and Guidance 26 February