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403.3R3 Communicable Diseases Guidelines for Preventing the Spread of Infectious Disease

Code No.: 4O3.3R3

COMMUNICABLE DISEASES GUIDELINES FOR PREVENTING THE SPREAD OF INFECTIOUS DISEASE

A.  Transmission of infectious diseases may occur more readily where close personal contact is involved in student care. Preschool and kindergarten settings, as well as special facilities for special education students, need special attention for the prevention of infectious diseases.

B.  Preventing the spread of infection requires that personal and environmental cleanliness techniques be practiced at all times in every school setting.

C.  Prior to the enrollment or continued attendance in the regular or special classroom of an infected student, the school nurse or principal's designee shall develop specific procedures appropriate to the student's age and the stage of development for the specific disease. The school nurse or principal's designee should carry out the following procedures:

1.  Conduct a health and developmental assessment, including a review of the student's medical records. Collaborate with parents and physician to ensure that the records are complete.

2.  Attempt to identify students and employees who may be at risk, such as those who are chronically ill, pregnant or taking immunosuppressant medication, if the information is available.

3.  Identify appropriate personal and environmental cleanliness techniques in accordance with student and employee needs.

4.  If the regular education program cannot be modified and the student is identified as an individual with special education needs, write appropriate health objectives for the student's Individualized Educational Program (IEP).

5.  Orient and train employees, including custodians, support employees and bus drivers. Orientation and training must be ongoing and must be scheduled to include new employees.

6.  Maintain ongoing communication with parents and the primary physician regarding the student' status.

7.  Verify the school district's efforts to prevent the spread of infection and to protect the health of employees and students by documenting the training and supervision of employees.

Approved 9-13-93        Reviewed 5-15-2023        Revised  6-17-2019