Is my child well enough for school?

Parents are frequently concerned about when students should stay home from school because of illness. It is important to have a child care plan for the days your child is ill and must stay home from school.

Here is some information that can help you decide if your child should stay home:

• If a student has had a fever of 100 degrees or more, the student must stay home for 24 hours after the temperature returns to normal.
• If a student has vomited or had diarrhea, the student must stay home until 24 hours after the last episode.
• If a student has had any rash that may be disease-related or the cause is unknown, check with a family physician before sending the student to school.
• If a student is ill, please call the school daily to report the illness.
• If your student has a chronic health disease that causes the symptoms of fever, vomiting, diarrhea and/or rash please check with the school nurse to discuss parameters for keeping your student home.

Remember that a child who is ill with an infectious disease can spread the disease when in contact with others in the family and community. Frequent hand washing is one of the best ways to limit spread of disease. Set a good example by washing your hands often and helping your child develop good hand washing habits.

If you have questions about these guidelines or your child’s illness, please call your school nurse or family physician.
See the illness/disease chart.