ORLANDO, Fla. – Parents in Orange County were notified of a case of monkeypox in an individual connected with Wedgefield School Wednesday.
According to a statement from Orange County Public Schools, the district was alerted Tuesday that a person associated with the K-8 school had been diagnosed with monkeypox.
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OCPS did not give any details about the person, or specify if it was a student or staff member. They did say the person had not been on the Wedgefield campus since Sept. 7, and will remain at home until cleared to return.
An OrangeConnect message was sent to student’s families on Wednesday stating:
Wedgefield families, this is principal Randall Longhouse. Last night I received information regarding an individual connected to our school that was diagnosed with monkeypox. This individual has not been on campus since September 7, and will remain home until cleared to return. The families of the students who were potentially exposed to the confirmed case were contacted by me and were given an opportunity to ask questions of the Florida Department of Health in Orange County. Per CDC guidance, exposure to an individual with monkeypox does not require a quarantine. However, if symptoms develop, it is recommended that you isolate your child at home and contact your doctor. If you have any questions, you can visit Floridahealth.gov website or call 407-723-5004 Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Please know we are prohibited from discussing any individual’s health information. All areas of the campus have been thoroughly cleaned and sanitized. Everyone’s health and safety is my top priority. Also remember, if your child is not feeling well for any reason, please keep them home for the benefit of everyone’s health and safety. Thank you for listening
This is the first case of monkeypox confirmed at an Orange County public school.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, there are currently 2,282 cases in Florida.
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