First Aid News

Deciding whether to send your child to school when they are unwell can be challenging. To help you make an informed decision, we have compiled the following information based on the Department of Health Public Health and Wellbeing Regulations 2019.

Fever

Keep your child home if your child has a temperature. Wait at least 24 hours after the fever has subsided naturally, without medication, before considering sending your child back to school.

Vomiting and Diarrhoea

If your child is vomiting or has diarrhoea, they must remain at home. These symptoms are hard to manage at school and can spread infection to others. Wait at least 24 hours after the last episode before contemplating a return to school. (48Hrs should there be a gastro outbreak)

Colds and Influenza Type Illnesses

Exclude from school until well. 

Rash

A rash may be a symptom of infection. Keeping your child home is usually the best thing to do until these symptoms clear or your child has been seen by a doctor and the rash is diagnosed. 

Pain

Abdominal pain, ear pain, headaches and body aches may indicate illness and may require a visit to the doctor. They may have a virus that can easily spread to other children and staff. Keep them home until any pain or discomfort has disappeared. 

Irritated Eyes

Red, Itchy, and watery eyes can hinder learning in class and might indicate an infection such as Conjunctivitis.  A doctor’s review is advised for accurate diagnosis. Exclusion from school is necessary until discharge from the eye/s has ceased. 

COVID-19

If a student tests positive for COVID-19, the Department of Education recommends isolation for a minimum of 5 days and they should not attend school until symptoms have resolved. 

A parent or guardian must also inform the school if the child is infected with an infectious disease or condition so we may advise our school classes and/or community.

Please be aware that if your child attends school with any of the above conditions, you may receive a phone call from the school and be asked to collect your child as the sickbay is unable to accommodate sick children for extended periods throughout the day. 

Please remember, the health and well-being of your child and their peers is of utmost importance. Keeping an unwell child at home not only aids their recovery but prevents the spread of illness to others at school.