Person whose illness prompted Bothell High School closure tests negative for coronavirus

BOTHELL, Wash. -- A family member of a Bothell High School employee who was quarantined for possible coronavirus has tested negative for the virus, the Snohomish County Health Department said Friday.

The person was quarantined and monitored after becoming ill following international travel with the staff member during the recent mid-winter break. The illness prompted Northshore Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid to close Bothell High Thursday and Friday for cleaning.

Reid said Friday that Bothell High School plans to reopen on Monday.

"While news of the negative results gives us an opportunity to breathe a little easier, I want you to know that our district will continue the work of staying informed on the coronavirus, which presents a very fluid situation," Reid said Friday in a letter to families. 

Though the state health department did not advise schools to close at this time, officials said they respected the district's decision.