Winter is the most active time for cold, flu and other respiratory illnesses that can spread easily in a school setting. To help parents and caregivers, Brockton Public Schools' Health Services Department has assembled these guidelines which provide more information about the types and severity of illnesses that commonly affect children and how to respond.
Fever of 100 or more - Stay home for 24 hours after fever is gone and encourage fluids.
Vomiting or diarrhea -. Vomiting is the forceful expulsion of stomach contents Diarrhea as defined by the department of public health is three or more loose stools in a 24 hour period. Stay home 24 hours after last episode and encourage fluids If students are lethargic, they should seek medical care.
Sore throat - Note that strep throat may be present without a fever, and may have symptoms of headache and stomachache.
Runny nose, cough - A day or two of rest, light diet with extra fluids and less dairy products will help resolve a cold, and will be a help in minimizing the spread of cold virus at school. A child who is feeling run down, losing sleep due to their cold, or sneezing and coughing is not going to be able to attend to learning.
Earaches - If these last more than a day or if pain is severe, please see your health provider.
Impetigo or other skin rash - Please have these identified and treated for 24 hours before returning to school. Consult with the school nurse with any questions.
"Pinkeye" or conjunctivitis - A draining, itchy eye that is red must be treated with antibiotic eye medicine before child returns to school.
BPS also encourages you to review state guidelines from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.
Preventative healthcare is most important:
Talk to your child about the importance of hand washing and encourage it at home and school. Remember hand washing is the single most important thing we can all do to stay healthy.
Make certain that your child gets the appropriate amount of sleep.
Please feel free to contact the nurse at your child's school and discuss any health issues
If your child is out for five consecutive days or has a communicable disease please provide the nurse with a doctor’s note stating they can be in school.