Announcement Details
Announcement Message
While MPX (formerly called "monkeypox") can infect anyone, the recent cases in 2022 have almost all exclusively occurred among adults. At this point in time, SF Department of Public Health (SFDPH) believes that the risk of MPX in schools, childcare, and youth programs is currently low.
What is MPX?
MPX spreads through prolonged skin to skin contact. Contact includes:
- sex
- kissing
- breathing at very close range
- sharing bedding and clothing
MPX is much less contagious than COVID-19.
MPX can be serious, though most cases resolve on their own. You should see a doctor right away if you think you have been exposed.
Staying Safe
SFDPH has provided MPX guidance for schools, childcare, and youth programs. SFUSD is already implementing health and safety measures to prevent the spread of MPX in our schools.
- Students do not share bedding, mats, towels, or clothing at school sites.
- SFUSD provides hand soap, water, and hand sanitizer so staff and students can practice hand hygiene.
- SFUSD practices standard disinfecting and cleaning procedures at school sites and provides disinfectant wipes. SFUSD delivered a shipment of wipes before the first day of school and will deliver another in September. Staff are encouraged to use the wipes to prevent the spread of the virus.
- Food, drinks, and utensils are individually wrapped to minimize shared use.
SFUSD continues to work closely with SFDPH around health-related issues such as COVID-19, MPX and childhood immunizations. At this time, public health considerations do not require notifications to families about MPX cases at schools.