On Thursday, April 24, 2025, six students at Jefferson Elementary School reported to the school nurse with an undiagnosed rash. Out of an abundance of caution, and following a discussion with the Ashtabula County Health Department, we made the decision to close all district schools on Friday, April 25, 2025.

This closure allowed our maintenance and transportation teams to thoroughly sanitize all classrooms and school buses. We extend our sincere gratitude to these staff members for their dedicated work.

As of this time, we do not have any confirmed medical diagnoses for the reported cases.

The Ashtabula County Health Department strongly advises parents of children exhibiting any signs of illness to seek medical evaluation for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Currently, Ashtabula County is experiencing increased activity of Fifth Disease. This illness typically begins with flu-like symptoms, which may include fatigue, headache, fever, runny nose, nausea, and/or diarrhea. It is most contagious during this initial phase of illness.

Following the initial symptoms, a distinctive bright red rash may appear on the face, often described as a "slapped cheek" appearance. This facial rash is usually followed by a lacy-patterned rash on the chest, arms, and legs. Importantly, once the rash develops, the individual is generally no longer contagious.

While the rash typically resolves within seven to ten days, it can recur intermittently for several weeks, potentially triggered by temperature fluctuations such as hot baths or sun exposure.

Children may return to school once they have been fever-free for 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication.

We have provided documents below from the Health Department for parents who wish to obtain additional information and guidance regarding Fifth Disease