Akron, Ohio, August 30, 2025
News Summary
Akron Garfield High School has canceled its upcoming football game against Revere Local Schools due to two players being diagnosed with hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD). The decision aims to protect the health of the large student body, which numbers over 19,000. Despite having a healthy team, Revere Local Schools acknowledged the outbreak and is seeking a no-contest ruling for the game. The administration continues to monitor health guidelines amid growing community concerns about the spread of this contagious illness.
Akron, Ohio – Akron Garfield High School has officially canceled the upcoming Friday night football game against Revere Local Schools due to concerns over hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD). This decision was prompted by the diagnosis of two Revere players with HFMD in the past two weeks, raising significant health concerns in the community.
In a statement from Revere Local Schools, it was confirmed that despite having a healthy team ready for the game, the outbreak of HFMD warranted a reassessment of the situation. The Akron Public School District voiced its apprehension about the virus’s potential to spread quickly among the student body, which comprises over 19,000 students and thousands of staff members. The district asserted that ensuring the safety and well-being of students is a priority that cannot be compromised.
The cancellation, described by school officials as a “proactive measure,” aims to prevent the disease from affecting athletes and community members more broadly. Garfield football coach Kemp Boyd expressed regret over the lost opportunity for his team to play but acknowledged the necessity of prioritizing the health of students. He emphasized appreciation for Revere’s transparency regarding the health concerns involving their players.
Following the decision, Revere is seeking a no-contest ruling from the Ohio High School Athletic Association regarding the game, indicating that the canceled game will not be rescheduled. This measure reflects an urgent desire to address the health risks associated with HFMD.
Hand, foot and mouth disease is a highly contagious viral infection primarily affecting children under five years of age. Common symptoms of HFMD include fever, sore throat, painful mouth sores, and rashes appearing on the hands and feet. Typically, the disease resolves within seven to ten days. However, parents in the district, including pediatrician Dr. Jeffrey Archinal, have voiced concerns that the response to HFMD could be considered an overreaction, suggesting that similar precautions should apply to other contagious illnesses like flu and COVID-19.
The cancellation of this game follows previous health-related disruptions, including the recent cancellation of a football game by nearby Norton schools due to HFMD concerns. School officials hope these decisions will maintain the health and safety of students during this outbreak.
As the situation evolves, the Akron Public Schools administration continues to monitor public health guidelines to ensure the safety of all students and staff members. In the meantime, parents and community members are encouraged to stay informed and vigilant in addressing health concerns as they arise.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is hand, foot and mouth disease?
Hand, foot and mouth disease is a contagious viral infection that commonly affects children under the age of five. It presents with symptoms such as fever, sore throat, painful mouth sores, and rashes on the hands and feet.
Why was the football game canceled?
The football game was canceled as a precautionary measure after two Revere players were diagnosed with hand, foot and mouth disease, to prevent further spread of the illness.
Will the game be rescheduled?
No, the canceled game will not be rescheduled, and Revere is requesting a no-contest ruling from the Ohio High School Athletic Association.
How long does HFMD usually last?
Typically, hand, foot and mouth disease resolves within seven to ten days without the need for medical treatment.
Key Features of the Article
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| School Involved | Akron Garfield High School and Revere Local Schools |
| Reason for Cancellation | Diagnosis of two Revere players with HFMD |
| Impact | No rescheduling of the game; health safety prioritized |
| Public Health Context | Potential rapid spread in large student population |
| Response from Community | Mixed reactions; some consider it an overreaction |
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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