Volume 13, Number 5: August 2005
Sick Kids and School: Follow the Three F's
Child (early morning pathetic look): Mommy, I feel bad.
Mommy (early morning parent look): Yes, tests are sickening. Get your clothes on.
Despite running jokes about fake tummy aches before school, it's never funny when a child is sick. With school in session, parents' concern is coupled with decisions about whether the illness warrants staying home. What is best for your childand for the classmates who share the schoolroom and germs?
Registered nurse Lorri Pilkington deals with these issues every day of the school year. As coordinator of Health and Nursing Services for Leon County Schools, she and clinic staff are especially busy during cold and flu season, caring for children and calling parents for pick-up. A clearly miserable child presents little dilemma for mom or dad. Bed, not school, is the place to be. For a less dramatic illness, or for early symptoms, Pilkington shared these guidelines with HealthLine.
"The early part of an illness is more contagious. It's not good to squeeze in one more day of school when your child is just starting to get sick."
Lorri Pilkington, R.N.,
Coordinator of Health and Nursing Services,
Leon County Schools
FEVER. Leon County Schools' policy is that children must be fever-free for at least 24 hours, and also not taking antifever medications such as Tylenol, before coming to school. Even without other symptoms, a temperature greater than 100.5 degrees indicates a probable infection, as well as contagiousness.
FLU-LIKE SYMPTOMS. If you observe, or your child complains of, symptoms that could be flunot a mild coldplease don't send your child to school. Body aches, headaches, chronic coughing, vomiting, diarrhea, or fever are often signs of serious viral infection.
An upper respiratory infection, with minor symptoms like a runny nose and scratchy throat, generally is transmitted by contact, not through the air. A child might go to school. If so, "We encourage frequent hand washing," says Pilkington. Also remind your children not to share food or drink.
FATIGUE. "If children don't feel well, they are not able to learn," Pilkington concludes. Parents know best their children's normal energy level. Ask yourself: Can my child really pay attention in school? A student who is run down, tired, or listless may simply be occupying a deskand much better off at home resting to become stronger.
FINALLY . . . always be sure the school has up-to-date phone numbers in order to reach you, and remember CHP's Urgent Care Center at Centerville Place. If your child needs medical attention and your physician isn't available, the Center is available to you from noon to 11 p.m., Monday through Friday, and from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekends. Call first: 383-3382. Remember, if your child does not attend a public school in Leon County, the school's policies may not be the same. It is best to check with your child's school regarding their health guidelines.
