This guide highlights seasonal illnesses that peak in winter and provides practical steps for protecting your family. Topics include available vaccinations, recognizing symptoms, and determining when a sick child should stay home from school.
Promote Good Hygiene
Teaching your child proper hygiene can prevent the spread of infections and reduce missed school time. Encourage handwashing for 20 seconds, using tissues for coughs and sneezes, and avoiding contact with others when sick. Opening windows to let in fresh air can also help reduce airborne virus transmission. Utilize resources like e-bug to explain hygiene practices to children.
Know When to Keep Your Child Home
Familiarize yourself with symptoms to decide if your child should stay home:
- A mild cough or cold is generally acceptable if there is no fever. Children with a fever should remain home until they recover and the fever subsides.
- For diarrhea and/or vomiting, keep your child home for at least 48 hours after the last episode.
- Routine COVID-19 testing is no longer recommended unless directed by a health professional. If your child tests positive, they should stay home for 3 days post-test. Children living with someone who tests positive can continue attending school.
- If your child shows symptoms of measles and hasn’t received both MMR vaccine doses, they should stay home.
Recognize the Signs
Be vigilant for other illnesses, such as scarlet fever, which peaks in late winter and early spring. Symptoms include a sore throat, fever, swollen neck glands, and a rash. If you suspect scarlet fever, contact your GP and keep your child home for 24 hours after starting antibiotics.
Measles outbreaks have occurred in various regions, with symptoms including a cold-like illness followed by a rash. Chickenpox, characterized by an itchy rash, is also common.
Ensure Vaccinations Are Up to Date
Vaccinations are crucial for preventing serious illnesses. Many children are missing routine vaccines, risking outbreaks and adding pressure to the NHS. Ensure your child’s vaccinations are current by checking their red book or contacting your GP.
Vaccinations offered to school-age children include:
- Flu: An annual nasal spray vaccine for children up to year 11 and those aged 2 and 3.
- HPV: For 12 to 13-year-olds to protect against HPV-related cancers.
- MenACWY: For 13 to 15-year-olds to guard against meningococcal diseases.
Protect Against Cold Weather
Cold indoor temperatures can impact children’s health, particularly those under 5 or with underlying conditions. To safeguard your child:
- Heat frequently used rooms to at least 18°C.
- Use draught excluders to minimize cold air.
- Dress children in layers to help retain body heat.
Financial assistance is available for heating costs, and the government offers tips for reducing energy bills.
By taking these preventative steps and recognizing symptoms early, you can help your child stay healthy and minimize school absences this term.
