Reminders + Guidelines for Flu Season

Dear Families,

As flu season is approaching and we are starting to see a few respiratory illnesses in our school community, I wanted to send out some reminders + guidelines about when to keep your child home from school. 

Reminders

  • If your child is exposed to or tests positive for Strep, Influenza, Covid-19, RSV, or any other respiratory illnesses, please contact the nurse to review current CDC guidelines.

  • A child who has a fever must remain at home until "fever free" for a minimum of 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medications.

  • Often, when a child awakens with vague complaints (the way colds and flu begin) it is wise to observe your child at home for an hour or two before deciding whether to bring them to school.

  • Your child should be physically able to participate in all school activities on return to school.  

  • Keeping a sick child at home will minimize the spread of infections and viruses in the classroom.

when to keep your child home

Keep your child at home for treatment and observation if he or she has any of these symptoms:

  • If your child is exposed to or tests positive for Strep, Influenza, Covid-19, RSV, or any other respiratory illnesses

  • Fever (greater than 100.4 degrees). Your child may return to school only after his or her temperature has been consistently below 100.4 degrees, for a minimum of 24 hours

  • Vomiting (even just once – must be vomit free for 24 hours before returning) 

  • Diarrhea  

  • Chills 

  • General malaise or feelings of fatigue, discomfort, weakness, or muscle aches

  • Frequent congested (wet) or croupy cough

When to consider keeping your child home

Consider keeping your child at home for extra rest and observation if he or she has any of the following symptoms: 

  • Very stuffy or runny nose and/or cough

  • Mild sore throat (no fever, no known exposure to strep)

  • Headache

  • Stomachache 

To help prevent the flu and other colds, practice good hygiene habits with your children:  

  • Wash hands frequently 

  • Try not to touch eyes, nose, or mouth  

  • Cover mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing, use a tissue, throw it away, and then wash hands 

  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick

  • If able, wear a high quality, well-fitting mask if showing any cold/flu symptoms 

Here are specific guidelines for the flu, for your reference.

Please contact Amanda Davis with any questions or concerns at health@gus.org. 

Thank you for helping keep our school community healthy!

Lower School, Upper SchoolAmanda Davis