At this time, there is no reason for schools to close, cancel classes or cancel extracurricular activities due to risk of Ebola. Children who reside in a home where a family member is being monitored for Ebola should not be excluded from school attendance unless that student was directly exposed.
People who have been exposed to the disease are being identified and contacted by the state and local public health officials. Public health officials will provide directions to any students who came into contact with someone infected with Ebola. If appropriate, based on exposure, the student may be asked to stay home. People exposed are being actively monitored for symptoms and fever.
Because no Ebola patients have been present at a Texas school, there is no reason to close or clean a building or bus beyond routine cleaning procedures.
Ebola is spread only through direct contact with a person who is sick with the disease or their blood, secretions or other bodily fluids. It cannot be spread by someone without any symptoms.
David L. Lakey, M.D.
Commissioner
AP photo of Dr. Lakey
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