When to stay home when not feeling well

  • We want students to  have good attendance but there may be  times when you are too ill to come to school. You cannot learn when you are ill and you risk infecting others if you have a communicable disease.

    These guidelines are suggested by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

    When a child is ill, the following steps should be taken:

    • Assess acuity of child.
    • Notify parent.
    • These guidelines should be sent to parent in the beginning of the year and discussed in site council.  

    Fever

    • An elevation of body temperature above normal ( oral 100.4ºF ) AND accompanied by behavior changes, stiff neck, difficulty breathing, rash, sore throat, and/or other signs or symptoms of illness; or is unable to participate.
    • Unable to participate in routine activities or needs more care than can be provided by the school staff.
    • Should not return until afebrile 24 hours without the aid of antipyretics.

    Diarrhea

    • Diarrhea is defined as an increased number of stools compared with a child's normal pattern, along with decreased stool form and/or stools that are watery, bloody, or contain mucus.
    • Exclude until 24 hours after diarrhea stops or follow specific disease exclusion if the pathogen is known (norovirus, salmonella, etc); or until a medical exam indicates that it is not due to a communicable disease.
    • Consult BPHC for outbreaks.

    Vomiting

    • Child has vomited two or more times in the previous 24 hours.
    • Exclude for 24 hours after last episode of vomiting, or until child is able to tolerate a meal without vomiting.
    • If it is NOT communicable, the family and their clinician  will need to discuss how to manage continued vomiting.

    Respiratory

    • Respiratory infections are common. If the child does not have fever, does not appear to have decreased activity  or other symptoms, it is not necessary for the child to stay home.
    • Respiratory Hygiene  and etiquette should be promoted.
    • It is preferred to begin each year with reviewing guidelines with staff so that they understand the process and that there are clear guidelines.
    • You will not usually be in the position of reporting a disease to the state as the Boston Public Health Commission is always contacted with Boston Events and will be in communication with the state.