2024–25 Respiratory Illness and COVID Recommendations

Fall is upon us and we are beginning to see an uptick in expected illness that comes along with it. To prevent the spread of respiratory illness please follow the guidelines below on when to stay home. Often, when a child awakens with vague complaints (the way colds and flu begin) it is wise to observe your child at home for an hour or two before deciding whether or not to bring them to school. Your child should be physically able to participate in all school activities on return to school. Keeping a sick child home minimizes the spread of infections and viruses in the classroom.

Consider keeping your child at home for extra rest if you see any of the following symptoms:

  • Very stuffy or runny nose and/or cough

  • Mild sore throat (no fever, no known exposure to strep)

  • Headache

  • Stomach ache

Definitely keep your child at home if you see any of these symptoms:

  • Fever (greater than 100.4 degrees. Your child may return to school only after his or her temperature has been consistently below 100.4 degrees, for a minimum of 24 hours)

  • Vomiting (even once, must be vomit free for 24 hours before returning)

  • Diarrhea

  • Chills

  • General malaise or feelings of fatigue, discomfort, weakness or muscle aches

  • Frequent congested (wet) or croupy cough

When can your child return to school?

  • Fever-free for 24 hrs WITHOUT the use of fever-reducing medications such as Motrin, Advil, Tylenol, ibuprofen, acetaminophen

  • Symptoms are improving over the past 24 hrs 

Once back to school/work:

Over the next five days it is strongly recommended that your child wears a face mask while indoors.  Frequent handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes will help reduce the spread of respiratory illness. 

Questions?

Please email Julia Bugeau-Heartt at jbugeau-heartt@gus.org 

Lower School, Upper School, Health OfficeJulia Bugeau-Heartt