How long to keep your child off school if they are unwell

Information adapted from Public Health Guidance on Infection Control in Schools

Diarrhoea and vomiting – 48 hours AFTER last episode

Flu – until recovered

Chickenpox – 5 days after onset of rash as long as vesicles have crusted over

German measles/measles – 4 days from onset of rash

Whooping cough – 48 hours from commencing antibiotic treatment, or 21 days from onset of illness if no antibiotic treatment

COVID-19 – stay at home for 3 days after testing positive/when symptoms started

Impetigo – until lesions are crusted and healed, or 48 hours after commencing antibiotic treatment

Scarlet fever – can return 24 hours after commencing appropriate antibiotic treatment

Shingles – keep at home only if rash is weeping and cannot be covered

Hand, foot and mouth – no need to keep off school if well enough, but please inform school

Mumps – 5 days after onset of swelling

Head lice – treatment is recommended and please inform school

Slapped cheek – school must be informed due to serious risk of vulnerable children and pregnant women

Diphtheria – exclusion is essential

Ringworm – treatment required

Scabies – child can return after first treatment