MONROE COUNTY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Monroe County Schools has canceled all after-school activities for Wednesday, October 14, 2026, as a precaution following reports of bacterial skin infections in surrounding school communities and athletic programs.
According to the school district, the decision comes amid reports of infections including staph, MRSA, and impetigo.
The cancellation will allow school personnel to thoroughly clean and disinfect athletic facilities, locker rooms, shared equipment, supplies, and frequently touched surfaces.
School officials emphasized that the cancellation is a preventive measure and does not necessarily indicate a confirmed outbreak within Monroe County Schools.
The district said it is continuing to gather and verify information regarding potential cases involving its schools.
Parents and guardians are being encouraged to examine their children for signs of skin infections, particularly those participating in athletics.
Symptoms to watch for include redness, swelling, tenderness, painful bumps, boils, sores, drainage, blisters, and areas of skin that appear to be worsening or spreading.
Families who notice concerning symptoms are encouraged to have their children evaluated by a healthcare provider.
The district also released guidance regarding school attendance and athletic participation based on recommendations from the Monroe County Health Department.
Students with dried or healing skin lesions may generally attend school and participate in athletics when appropriate, provided the affected areas are securely covered with bandages.
Additional restrictions may apply depending on the infection and sport.
However, students with actively draining or oozing lesions are prohibited from participating in athletics until the areas are dry and applicable return-to-play requirements have been met.
Students prescribed oral antibiotics for a skin infection must complete at least 72 hours of treatment before returning to athletic activities, according to health department guidance.
Additional requirements may include having no new lesions for at least 48 hours, no active drainage, and medical clearance when necessary.
School officials stressed that completing 72 hours of antibiotic treatment does not automatically qualify a student to return to athletic participation.
The district also noted that school attendance and athletic participation have different requirements. Some students with skin infections may still attend classes while being temporarily restricted from sports.
Monroe County Schools said its goal is to increase awareness, encourage early identification of infections, and protect students, staff, and the community.
Anyone with questions or concerns may contact Monroe County Schools Nurse Jessica Thomas at 304-772-3094, extension 322, or the Monroe County Health Department at 304-772-3064.
