Another 100 new cases of COVID confirmed within Madison school district this week

MADISON – Madison City Schools saw another 100 students test positive for COVID this week. Superintendent Dr. Ed Nichols said the school district has seen over 200 students catch the virus since school began on Aug. 4. Madison County Schools reported having over 500 cases of COVID within its school district.

“COVID is on the rise throughout our community and the state,” he said.  “This includes Madison City Schools. Even with these cases, that are higher than at any point last year, we are seeing up to 50-60% fewer students being excluded due to being a ‘close contact’.”

Nichols said the school district is trying to keep the community informed about the spread of COVID within the district by placing the numbers on the district website at www.madisoncity.k12.al.us. To find these numbers, go to the district website, click on Departments and Health Services. The website provides the number of close contacts and positive cases.

“The district has received some questions about the 14 day exclusion period. While the CDC states that a 10 day period may be used for ‘close contacts,’ they defer the standard to the local and state health agencies. Currently, the ADPH recommends a 14 day period unless after 10 days, the close contact is symptom free, wears a mask and maintains six feet of separation from other individuals,” Nichols explained. “Since we cannot guarantee the six feet of separation in the school classroom setting, we are utilizing the 14 day period of exclusion for our close contacts.”