In light of allergy season, parents are advised to be attentive about their child’s health and potential symptoms. Here are the symptoms to watch out for and the necessary steps before your child’s return.
If your child has a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, they should seek medical care if accompanied by symptoms such as ear pain, sore throat, rash, stomachache, headache, or tooth pain. Once their fever has subsided for 24 hours without fever-reducing medication and they are feeling better, they can safely return to school.
Vomiting two or more times in the last 24 hours or having watery stool warrants medical attention. Additionally, if your child experiences stomach cramping, fever, bloody or black stool, or signs of dehydration (tiredness, dry mouth, infrequent urination) seek medical care.
Persistent cough, difficulty breathing, or a fever with a cough may indicate COVID-19 or flu, warrant evaluation by a healthcare provider. Once they feel better and have been cleared by a doctor, they may return to school.
Seek medical care for a rash with blisters, drainage, pain, bruises, or a fever.
For eye irritation, swelling, pain, trouble seeing, or an eye injury, they can return once they feel better.
If your child has a sore throat with drooling, trouble swallowing, or a fever/rash, seek medical attention. If prescribed antibiotics, they may return 12 hours after the first dose, provided they have no fever and feel better.
Contact your child’s healthcare provider, local urgent care, or health department if you have concerns or are unsure about sending your child to school.
