Overview
- Shelby County, Tennessee, has logged at least 178 students and staff affected across 31 schools and three daycare centers, according to an Oct. 20 health department update.
- Prince George’s County Public Schools report cases in more than 40 schools since late August, affecting students from preschool through high school.
- PGCPS is increasing cleaning frequency, bringing in after-hours crews, and expanding hand-washing routines, while Shelby County health officials continue school support and monitoring.
- Students are advised to stay home until fever-free for 24 hours without medication, with hand blisters crusted and no uncontrolled drooling from mouth sores, and they should feel well enough for class.
- Health officials cite CDC guidance that the virus spreads via droplets, contaminated surfaces, fecal-oral routes, and blister fluid, and note there is no vaccine or specific treatment beyond supportive care.