Akron, Ohio, August 30, 2025
News Summary
Akron Garfield High School has canceled its upcoming football game against Revere Local Schools due to health concerns over hand, foot and mouth disease. The decision was made after two Revere players tested positive for the contagious illness, prompting Akron to prioritize the health and safety of its students and staff. This cancellation underscores the ongoing challenges schools face regarding infectious diseases, with officials describing the move as a proactive measure. The Ohio High School Athletic Association will be notified about the no-contest ruling as the community navigates this health issue.
Akron, Ohio – In a significant health-related decision, Akron Garfield High School has officially canceled its scheduled football game against Revere Local Schools set for this Friday night. This cancellation comes amid concerns surrounding hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD), a highly contagious illness that primarily affects young children.
The cancellation was announced by Revere Local Schools after two of its players were diagnosed with HFMD in the past two weeks. Despite the presence of a healthy team ready for the home game, the potential risk of spreading HFMD prompted Revere to inform Akron about the health concerns.
The Akron Public School District has underlined the importance of safeguarding the health of its students, emphasizing that the well-being of over 19,000 enrolled students and thousands of staff is of utmost priority. The district’s decision is described as a “proactive measure” intended to prevent any possible transmission of HFMD among athletes and community members.
Garfield football coach Kemp Boyd expressed his team’s readiness to compete before receiving news about the health risks associated with the upcoming game. He acknowledged the need for such a decision, alongside expressing appreciation to Revere for its transparency regarding the health situation.
Following the cancellation, Akron Public Schools is seeking a no-contest ruling from the Ohio High School Athletic Association, signifying that the game will not be rescheduled. This incident follows closely on the heels of a similar cancellation by Norton High School, which also withdrew from a football game due to HFMD concerns.
Hand, foot and mouth disease is primarily marked by symptoms such as fever, sore throat, painful mouth sores, and rashes on the hands and feet. The disease is particularly prevalent among children under 5 years old, although it can affect individuals of any age. Generally, HFMD resolves within seven to ten days. While the seriousness of the situation has led to swift action by school officials, some parents have voiced their opinions, suggesting that the response may be an overreaction. Parents have compared this situation to other illnesses, such as the flu and COVID, implying a need for uniform health policies.
The ongoing health discourse has brought about differing perspectives on how schools should respond to various health threats, particularly with the backdrop of current public health protocols. The decision to cancel the game aligns with heightened awareness of contagious diseases, fostering a commitment to ensure student safety above all.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the cancellation of the football game?
Two players from Revere Local Schools were diagnosed with hand, foot and mouth disease, leading to concerns about potential spread among athletes and the community.
Will the game be rescheduled?
No, the canceled game will not be rescheduled, and Akron Public Schools is seeking a no-contest ruling from the Ohio High School Athletic Association.
What are the symptoms of hand, foot and mouth disease?
Common symptoms include fever, sore throat, painful mouth sores, and rashes on the hands and feet. The illness is typically mild and resolves within 7 to 10 days.
Who is primarily affected by hand, foot and mouth disease?
The disease mainly affects children, particularly those under 5 years old.
Have similar cancellations occurred recently?
Yes, Norton High School also canceled a football game recently due to similar concerns regarding hand, foot and mouth disease.
Key Features of the Cancellation
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Schools Involved | Akron Garfield High School and Revere Local Schools |
| Reason for Cancellation | Diagnosis of two players with hand, foot and mouth disease |
| Decision Type | Proactive measure to prevent illness spread |
| Illness Characteristics | Highly contagious, primarily affects young children, resolves in 7-10 days |
| Response from Schools | Seeking no-contest ruling, focus on student well-being |
| Similar Incidents | Norton High School also canceled a game due to HFMD |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
High School Football Game Canceled Due to Health Concerns
Additional Resources
- Fox 8 News
- Wikipedia: Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease
- Cleveland.com
- Google Search: Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease
- WKYC
- Google Scholar: Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease
- Cleveland 19 News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease
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