JCBE/POLICY FILE: 472.2

Approved: 02/23/78

Revised: 06/20/03

COMMUNICABLE/INFECTIOUS DISEASES OR CONDITIONS

Communicable and infectious diseases can have a substantial impact on the environment in schools operated by the Jefferson County Board of Education. To help minimize that impact and to promote the continued health and safety of students, parents, employees and the public, the Board adopts this policy.

1.    Reporting. Administrators or supervisors shall be responsible for reporting all cases or suspected cases of notifiable diseases and health conditions to appropriate authorities as directed by and in conformity with State Board of Health requirements and regulations.

2.    Immunization. Children must be immunized against or test-4 for all diseases so designated by the State Health Officer prior to being admitted to the Jefferson County school system, unless excepted under state law. A certificate of immunization against diseases designated by the State Health Officer shall be required before a student can be enrolled m school, except as provided in ALA, CODE § 16-30-3 (1975).

3.     Authority to Restrict Attendance. The Superintendent shall have the to impose restrictions upon any student or staff member with a communicable disease known to be spread by any form of casual contact and considered a health threat to the office or school population, as determined by the State Board of Health, the County Board of Health, or the medical examiner.

        In that case, such person (s) may be restricted from school for a period of time as may be prescribed by the State Board of Health, local health department, school nurse, a physician, or as otherwise provided by state law. In all cases, a statement of clearance from the  Department of Health, school nurse, or a physician shall be required before the student or staff member may reenter school or the workplace.

4.    Mandatory Screening for Communicable Diseases. Mandatory screening for communicable diseases may be warranted if required by state law or regulation.

5.    Standard Precautions. Standard precautions should be used by By Board employees when exposed to blood or bodily fluids within the school setting or on school buses.

6.    Confidential Information. All persons with privileged or confidential medical information that pertains to students or staff members shall be required to treat all proceedings, discussions, and documents about said information as confidential.

       Such information shall not be disclosed without consent of the parent/guardian, student (over age 18), employee, or his or her duly authorized representative, or as permitted or required by state or federal law.

7.    Instruction Regarding Communicable Diseases. Instruction about communicable diseases, including but not limited to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), will be provided to students and staff in accordance with and to the extent required by state law or regulation.