Health and Safety/

Monkeypox Prevention

Monkeypox Prevention



The school is closely monitoring public health discussions and news sources about the spread of Monkeypox (MPV). The federal Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Washington Department of Health (DOH) have not published any official guidance for schools and district leaders since adolescent MPV cases remain relatively low.  

The predominant way to catch MPV is through prolonged, close skin-to-skin contact. Secondary ways to catch MPV include touching contaminated surfaces such as bedding or clothing and contact with respiratory secretions like mucus during extended face-to-face contact. 

While the state DOH has not issued any guidance for K-12 schools, general public health recommendations include:

  • Practicing good personal hygiene
  • Washing and disinfecting high-use areas
  • Staying home when sick

As public health authorities release new information and guidance, the school will tailor its procedures as needed.  

Monitoring Symptoms

We also ask that you monitor your student for symptoms and keep them home if they exhibit any of the following:

  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Muscle aches and backache
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Chills
  • Respiratory symptoms (e.g. Sore through, nasal congestion, or cough)
  • A rash that can look like pimples or blisters that appears on the face, inside the mouth, and on other parts of the body, like the hands, feet, or chest. (The rash goes through different stages before healing completely)

Some people get a rash first, followed by other symptoms. Others may only experience the rash.

The illness typically lasts two-four weeks.

Monkeypox Information Sources