Parents & Guardians ~

We are experiencing an uptick of "Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease" (HFMD) in our schools.  Typically, this presents as open sores/blisters on the hands, feet, face, and inside the mouth.  It can appear on additional parts of the body as well.  A fever is also very common.

While this virus is not generally serious, it is extremely contagious.  In order to help control the spread within our schools, we are following local medical advice and CDC guidelines.  

Children should stay home in any/all of the following instances:

* Open sores on hands and/or face;

* Fever of 100.4 or greater;

* Not able to eat or drink comfortably--and are drooling excessively--because of sores inside the mouth.

Children can return to school when all of the following occur:

* He/she has been fever-free for 24 hours;

* Sores on hands/face have disappeared OR have "crusted" over.  Weeping or open sores are still considered contagious;

* He/she is able to eat, drink, and concentrate during school and is not drooling.

If your child has symptoms of HFMD and you have questions about him/her attending school, you can reach me at the following:  blinne@sd244.org or at 208-983-0400, ext. 3329

Thank you for your understanding and help in this matter. 

Erin Blinn, RN