Communicable Disease

Schools should have protocols and procedures for: 

• Educating school personnel regarding symptoms and management of communicable diseases 
• Training for handling blood-borne pathogens (Required by OSHA) 
• Keeping children with signs of communicable disease at home and seeking appropriate treatment 
• Record-keeping regarding non-immunized children during outbreaks 
• Exclusion and follow-up of children who are not immunized against vaccine-preventable diseases or who have contracted a communicable disease. 
• Designating the school nurse (or other school official) as liaison with public health officials for the reporting of notifiable diseases and conditions. 

Resource for Families: When is Sick Too Sick for School? 

Maine CDC Communicable Disease School Health Resource 
Most diseases, such as ringworm, impetigo, and scabies, must be handled locally and not reported to public health officials. The School Health page managed by the Maine CDC contains disease-specific information sheets that include symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment, and role of the school nurse, including prevention recommendations and links to more information. Questions and consults may be addressed to disease.reporting@maine.gov or 1-800-821-5821 

Communicable Disease Quick Guide for Schools and Childcare Centers 2024  (for printing, use 11x17 paper)

• Checklist for Suspected Outbreak 
• 15% Absenteeism Guidance 

A potential outbreak of disease is reportable to Maine CDC. In schools, this is defined as 15% of the school population being absent on a particular day due to illness. Schools must report elevated absenteeism. Using the NEO reporting tool will communicate with the Maine DOE and the Maine CDC. For detailed directions see the NEO Reporting Reference Guide.