At this time, based on the information collected by the Shaker Heights Health Department and all Cuyahoga County Public Health agencies, there is no known threat to the public’s health. 

1. Your child is not at risk while attending school. A risk for Ebola only comes when you come into close contact with a person suffering from Ebola. The health care worker who passed through Northeast Ohio did not visit any Shaker schools.

2. Being near someone who is sick with Ebola doesn't mean you'll get infected. The disease isn't contagious like the flu or common cold. You have to be in contact with a patient's body fluids (such as blood, saliva, sweat, vomit, or feces). You have to have a break in your skin or have the fluids touch your eyes, mouth or nose for transmission.

3. Ebola does not live long on surfaces or outside someone's body. Soaps, detergents and hand sanitizers are effective at killing bacteria and virus. Keeping your area clean and washing your hands will help prevent all infections.

4. You and your children are really only at risk if you have traveled to West Africa, where Ebola is currently spreading.

5. Fear is more contagious than Ebola. While the threat of Ebola is frightening, the real risk is very low. If you or your child has a fever, headache, vomiting or diarrhea, and no exposure to someone with Ebola, Ebola is among the least likely causes of these symptoms. Taking a calm, rational approach is advised. Contact your doctor for concerns. As always, if your child is ill, he or she should stay home to avoid spreading any infection.