Ocean Township High School will forfeit its football game against Neptune Saturday after it was discovered this week that members of the football team were diagnosed with impetigo. 

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Athletic Director H. Rusty Todd said that any team members with suspicious skin irritations were sent to their doctor and not permitted to return to school without medical clearance.  In addition they were advised that they would not be allowed to participate in football until Friday and all facilities and equipment were thoroughly cleaned and disinfected.

Ocean Township School Superintendent John Lysko in an email wrote that  "48 JV and varsity players, 6 have been diagnosed."

Todd said since there is no other week that both teams are open the game can’t be made up and thus Ocean has to forfeit the game.

The Spartans next scheduled game is September 21 when they host Matawan. Lysko expects to be able to play the game but it will depend on the recovery rate.

Lysko added that the decision to postpone has his full support. "In an effort to reduce the spread of infection, practices were cancelled this week. We did not want to field a team that was not in top condition to play. We wanted to reduce the risk of any injury to our students. This decision was made by Coach Klein in consultation with the athletic trainer and the AD. Coach Klein is to be commended for his action."

According to the MayoClinic website, impetigo is a highly contagious skin infection that mainly affects infants and children. Impetigo usually appears as red sores on the face, especially around a child's nose and mouth. Although it commonly occurs when bacteria enter the skin through cuts or insect bites, it can also develop in skin that's perfectly healthy. It is not considered to be a serious condition but can lead to other complications in those affected.

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