Determining whether a child is unwell enough to remain at home can sometimes be challenging. However, as the season for respiratory illnesses coincides with the return to school, understanding the symptoms to look for becomes crucial in making that choice.

According to Dr. Roopa Shah, a family medicine doctor at SSM Health, we should prepare for a hectic period with RSV, flu, and COVID occurring simultaneously. “Children should refrain from attending school if they have a fever that exceeds 100.4°, and you should certainly keep them home if they show a continuous cough,” Dr. Shah advises. “Signs of illness also include increased irritability or tiredness, along with vomiting and diarrhea. To prevent spreading illness to peers and teachers, keeping them at home is a responsible decision. ”

For COVID-19, having rapid at-home tests readily available can prove beneficial when your child begins to show symptoms or has been in contact with someone who is sick. It’s wise to keep these tests accessible as the school year commences.

“Parents frequently express concerns about missing work. It’s advisable to develop a strategy for handling situations when children are not well,” urges Dr. Shah. “Even if children aren’t infected with any of the popular respiratory viruses, they might catch a severe cold that could hinder their ability to focus if they go to school. ”

Dr. Shah mentions that parents who ensure their children are vaccinated may find they need to keep them home less frequently compared to those who do not. Consult your healthcare provider to verify if your child can receive vaccines and boosters to ensure a successful school year.