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Too Sick for School

chart of symptoms

When To Keep Your Child Home From School

Lakewood School District works with the Snohomish Health District to help protect children from spreading communicable diseases. Keeping children home when they are too sick for school protects other students and staff from potential illness.

Symptoms That a Child is Too Sick for School

  • Fever: 100°F (37.8°C) or higher.
  • Vomiting: One or More times.
  • Diarrhea: More than once in 24 hours.
  • Severe cough: Especially with mucus or if it causes breathing trouble.
  • Sore throat: Especially with fever or swollen glands.
  • Rash: If it’s spreading or accompanied by fever.
  • Eye infection: Red, itchy, or crusty eyes.
  • Head lice: live lice are seen.

When Your Child Can Return to School

Your child can return to school when:

  • Fever-free: For 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medications.
  • Symptom-free: From vomiting and diarrhea for 24 hours.
  • Cough and cold: Symptoms are mild and they can manage them at school.
  • Rash: Is cleared or a doctor has confirmed it’s not contagious.
  • Eye infection: After 24 hours of treatment and no discharge.
  • Head lice: After treatment and no live lice are seen.

Tips for Keeping Your Child Healthy

  • Handwashing: Encourage frequent handwashing with soap and water.
  • Vaccinations: Keep your child’s vaccinations up to date.
  • Healthy diet: Provide a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables.
  • Rest: Ensure your child gets enough sleep each night.

For any questions or concerns, please contact the Lakewood School District Health Team.

District Nurse Gwen Grubb at 360-654-2098

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