As we enter the winter flu season, the Director of Public Health is reminding parents and carers of the need to balance regular school attendance with protecting children, staff and the wider school community from illness.

With seasonal infections such as Strep A and flu circulating more frequently at this time of year, families are encouraged to follow established exclusion guidance. This helps reduce the spread of illness in schools and supports the health and wellbeing of everyone.

Importantly, this advice does not apply to children with mild sniffles or everyday cold symptoms, who should continue to attend school wherever possible. Instead, it relates to situations where a child is clearly unwell, has a fever, or shows signs of a significant respiratory or infectious illness that would make attending school inappropriate.

Parents and carers are asked to consider the following:

• If a child has diarrhoea or vomiting: They should stay home until 48 hours after the last episode.
• If a child has been diagnosed by a GP and prescribed antibiotics for Strep A or another bacterial infection: They should remain at home for at least 24 hours after starting antibiotics and only return once they are fever-free. If a temperature persists after 24 hours, they should continue to stay home.
• If a child has flu-like symptoms, including fever or heavy cold symptoms: Children should be symptom-free for at least 48 hours before returning to school.

The GHA recognises that these decisions can be challenging, especially when children are keen not to miss school and when families face work or childcare pressures. However, ensuring that children have adequate time to recover helps limit outbreaks, protects vulnerable classmates and staff, and reduces pressure on essential health services during the winter months.

Parents who are unsure whether their child should stay home are encouraged to seek advice by calling 111.

Director of Public Health Dr Helen Carter said:
“We appreciate the care and commitment parents show in supporting their children’s education. Winter does bring an increase in flu, Strep A and other seasonal infections, and sometimes deciding whether a child is well enough for school can be difficult. Allowing children the time they need to fully recover helps keep classrooms healthy, protects staff and pupils, and ensures those who do become unwell have the best chance to rest and get better.”

ENDS