An unknown person told the school officials that he/she may have exposed 50 students to HIVdefine. The health authorities are not disclosing whether the infected person was a student, teacher or connected with the school or even about the method of transmission due to privacy laws. The possible exposure possibilities include sexual activity, drug use, steroids or tattoos, according to a health department spokesman.
All schools in the neighboring areas are taking preventive measures and the school authorities are advising students to get themselves tested if they have dated anyone at the Normandy High School.
School authorities and parents are also worried about the stigma attached to the students. A 16 year old girl reported that her boyfriend from another school dumped her after hearing the news.
Doug Hochstedler, Normandy School District spokesman, said, "There's potential for stigma for all students regardless of whether they're positive or negative."
Adding further he said, "The board wants to be sure all children are fully educated."
Stanton Lawrence, Normandy Superintendent, said that school is running smoothly as before and there is no panic among students who are more focused on learning, despite concerns and distraction.
"They recognize this situation is what it is, and doesn't mean school is over," Lawrence said. “Their concern is heightened, but we have to face it and do the responsible thing."
The school has announced to set up a testing centre, so that all 1,300 students can get themselves checked and also receive information about the HIV and AIDS. The test is optional and students can say no to test.
A County Health Department spokesman said that the state, local and federal funding will provide money for treatment of children who are found to be HIV-positive.
Your headline does not
Your headline does not match the facts of your article. 50 students that MAY be infected does not equate to 50 students being infected.
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