Communicable Diseases

  • In an attempt to minimize the spread of communicable diseases, the school community will encourage frequent handwashing and thorough cleaning of common surfaces.  Parents can also help by keeping students home if they exhibit the following symptoms (see links below for further guidance):

    A parent/guardian will be called at home or work if an injury or illness occurs at school.

    If a child is unable to participate comfortably in school activities or if there is risk of spread of harmful disease to others, the student will be excluded from school.

    Here is a list of criteria for various symptoms/illnesses that may occur:

    1. Severely ill: A child that is lethargic or less responsive, has difficulty breathing, or has a rapidly spreading rash.
    2. Fever: A child with a temperature of 100.4°F or greater AND behavior changes or other signs or symptoms (e.g., sore throat, rash, vomiting, or diarrhea). The child should not return until 24 hours of no fever, without the use of fever-reducing medications.
    3. Diarrhea: A child has two loose or watery stools. The child should have no loose stools for 24 hours prior to returning to school. Exception: A healthcare provider has determined it is not infectious. For students with diarrhea caused by Campylobacter, E. coli, Salmonella or Shigella, please refer to the chart for exclusions and required clearance criteria.
    4. Vomiting: A child that has vomited two or more times. The child should have no vomiting episodes for 24 hours prior to returning. A child can return to school when able to tolerate liquids and food. Exception: A healthcare provider has determined it is not infectious.
    5. Abdominal pain: A child with abdominal pain that continues for more than two hours, or intermittent pain associated with fever or other symptoms.
    6. Rash: A child with a rash AND has a fever or a change in behavior. Exclude until the rash subsides or until a healthcare provider has determined it is not infectious. For students with a diagnosed rash, please refer to the chart for exclusions and required clearance criteria.
    7. Skin sores: A child with weeping sores on an exposed area that cannot be covered with waterproof dressing.
    8. Certain communicable diseases: Children and staff diagnosed with certain communicable diseases, including COVID-19, may have to be excluded for a certain period of time. Click here for Communicable Disease chart.

     

    Taken from “Managing Communicable Diseases in Schools” by MDHHS and Michigan Department of Education (Feb 2022)