Preventing the Spread of Illness in Schools
Keeping children healthy not only benefits their well-being but also helps protect school staff and the wider community from the spread of illness. Children are particularly vulnerable to exposure due to close and prolonged contact with their peers during play, meals, and classroom activities.
When Is a Child Too Sick for School?
Before sending your child to school, ask yourself:
Is my child well enough to comfortably participate in the day’s activities and learning?
Could my child spread their illness to other children or staff?
Will my child’s teacher be able to care for them without it affecting their ability to support other students?
If I felt this way, would I go to work?
If you're unsure, seek medical advice.
Resources
Time Out Guide – Understanding when to keep your child at home:
Time Out Brochure (External link) – Information for parents about infectious diseases and school exclusion periods in Queensland.
Time Out Poster (External link) – A reference for common infectious conditions that may require school exclusion.
Public Health Units (External link) – Queensland Health’s Public Health Units provide guidance on contagious illnesses, including exclusion periods and contact management.
By working together, we can help keep our school community safe and healthy.