Important Notice to Parents From the Benzie-Leelanau District Health Department:

The Benzie-Leelanau District Health Department works directly with schools to make Benzie and Leelanau Counties a healthier place to live. The State of Michigan requires schools to report the possible occurrence of any communicable disease to the local public Health Department on a weekly basis (Public Act 368 of 1978). Schools are required to report communicable diseases to help the Health Department assess for unusual illness, increased frequency of illness, and clusters of illness in the school community. Some examples of illnesses that we track include influenza, whooping cough (pertussis) and chicken pox. In some cases, the Health Department Communicable Disease staff may confidentially contact you for further information.

To assist your child’s school in reporting possible communicable diseases to the Health Department and prevent the spread of illness, please be as specific as possible when reporting your child’s absence due to illness.

When calling in for a child (Elementary 271-8601, Middle School 271-2545, High School 271-8604) please include the following information:

1. A description of the symptoms of the illness (fever, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, etc.) and report the type of disease and who diagnosed the illness (parent or physician.)

2. Your phone number at home or work.

Thank you for your participation in this important health activity. You are a vital link in the gathering of information regarding the health of our school community. Your cooperation with your school and the Benzie-Leelanau District Health Department is greatly appreciated.

If you have questions or feedback about this reporting program, please contact the Benzie-Leelanau District Health Department Communicable Disease Coordinator at 231-256-0200.