Senior and sophomore were found to be infected with coronavirus

Arroyo Grande High School officials announced a 10th grade Arroyo Grande High School student tested positive for COVID-19. During a news briefing which took place on the same day, County Health Officer, Dr. Penny Borenstein acknowledged two high school-aged students tested positive for COVID-19 but did not confirm where the students attended school. 

Dr. Borenstein can confirm two Arroyo Grande High School students have tested positive for COVID-19, including one 10th grader; and one 12th grader. Students may have been exposed to the 10th grader during the communicable period, which began on March 13, the final day prior to school closure. It is not believed that any students were exposed to the 12th grader as the estimated communicable period took place after Arroyo Grande High School closed to prevent the spread of the disease. 

When dealing with a large school population, Dr. Borenstein says, “The County will take a balanced approach in notifying school administration and individuals who potentially had contact with infected individuals, while maintaining medical privacy.” 

The County continues to conduct detailed investigations when learning of individuals who have tested positive for COVID-19, while being mindful of releasing information that would violate HIPAA practices. 

For updates on COVID-19 in SLO County: Visit ReadySLO.org or call the recorded Public Health Information Line at (805) 788-2903. A staffed phone assistance center at (805) 543-2444 is available seven (7) days a week from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. for questions related to COVID-19.