Editor’s note: The video above contains file footage of mice and rat infestations. The video does not contain footage of rats or mice found at any Olney ISD school.

OLNEY ( KFDX/KJTL ) — Parents in Olney are voicing concerns about their children’s health after several students reportedly developed rashes.

With reports of a mice infestation in the school, many are connecting the dots, wondering if there could be a link. Parents have said the rash resembles bug bites and eventually covers large areas of the body with hives.

One parent said in a Facebook post that she and some other parents noticed their child’s rash seemed to clear after they had time away from the school but flared up again once they returned, leading parents to conclude that something at the school was making kids sick.

The district implemented measures to ensure safety while the issue was being resolved, including increased cleaning efforts and a surplus of mouse traps throughout the campus.

Despite these efforts, parents remain skeptical. In response, Olney ISD Superintendent Greg Roach acknowledged the concerns.

“I’m thankful we’ve got some parents that will provide us the constructive feedback we need, and we’re hoping it’s not anything like that that’s causing the rash,” Roach said. “We do know we have had reports from a couple parents that it was some grass, you know, it is that time of year, but we still want to make sure that it has nothing to do with this rodent problem.”

Superintendent Roach said he appreciates all the help and input he’s received from parents and that the district is taking this as a learning experience and a chance to get better.

As the issue continues to be resolved, parents are encouraged to monitor their children for any symptoms and report them directly to school officials.

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