News Summary
Akron Garfield High School has canceled its football game against Revere Local Schools over health concerns linked to hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD). The decision was made to safeguard students and staff, following reports of illness within the opposing team. Although Revere maintained a healthy roster, Akron Public Schools prioritized safety due to the contagious nature of HFMD. School officials have requested a no-contest ruling from the Ohio High School Athletic Association regarding the cancellation.
Akron, Ohio — Akron Garfield High School Cancels Upcoming Football Game Over Health Concerns
Akron Garfield High School has announced the cancellation of its scheduled football game against Revere Local Schools, citing concerns over the spread of hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD). The decision was made as a proactive measure to protect students, staff, and the broader community amid reports of illness within the opposing team.
Details of the Cancellation
The game, originally arranged for Friday night, was called off after Revere Local Schools informed Akron Garfield High School of two players who had been diagnosed with HFMD within the past two weeks. Despite the diagnoses, Revere had maintained a healthy roster prepared for the game. Nevertheless, Akron Public Schools emphasized the risk of rapid disease transmission in a district with more than 19,000 students and numerous staff members.
The district’s leadership took the stance that prioritizing student health and safety was essential. According to Michelle Marquess-Kearns, the executive director of school leadership for Akron, the district’s main concern was that the contagious nature of HFMD could quickly affect many people if the game proceeded.
Officials’ Rationale and School Response
School administrators described the cancellation as a
- preventive step
- to stop potential transmission of HFMD among athletes and spectators
Garfield’s football coach, Kemp Boyd, stated that his team was ready and eager to play until health officials raised concerns. Boyd expressed that the decision was made with the
students’ best interests in mind and appreciated Revere’s transparency in sharing health information.
Revere High School Principal Doug Faris confirmed publicly that the game would not take place and added that the schools would not attempt to reschedule the matchup.
Official Actions and Future Implications
Akron Public Schools announced it is requesting a no-contest ruling from the Ohio High School Athletic Association regarding the canceled game, aligning with their aim to adhere to health safety protocols.
Understanding Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease
HFMD is a highly contagious illness that predominantly affects children under 5 years old. It spreads through close contact, coughing, sneezing, or contact with contaminated surfaces. Symptoms typically include fever, sore throat, painful mouth sores, and rashes on hands and feet. The illness usually resolves within seven to ten days.
Community and Expert Reactions
The decision has garnered mixed reactions. Some parents and healthcare professionals, such as pediatricians, have criticized the cancellation, deeming it an overreaction. They suggest that similar precautions could be considered for other illnesses like the flu or COVID-19. Nonetheless, school officials emphasize that their primary duty is to prevent disease spread within the school community.
Recent Similar Cases
This cancellation follows a recent incident at Norton, another local school, which also canceled a football game due to HFMD concerns. The recurring action indicates increased vigilance in the local school district regarding contagious diseases during this period.
Background and Context
HFMD is generally mild but can be uncomfortable, primarily affecting young children, though it can also spread among older students and adults in certain circumstances. The disease’s contagious nature has led schools and districts to take preventive actions such as event cancellations to avoid outbreaks. These measures aim to protect vulnerable populations and prevent school-wide disruptions caused by illness.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
High School Football Game Canceled Amid Health Concerns
Additional Resources
- Fox 8 News
- Wikipedia: Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease
- Cleveland.com
- Google Search: Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease
- WKYC
- Google Scholar: Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease
- Cleveland 19 News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease
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