Exclusion Periods for Contagious Illnesses Procedure

General Exclusion Guidelines:
- Children and staff with symptoms of contagious illnesses should remain at home.
- Parents must inform the educator if their child has been diagnosed with a contagious illness.
- If a child becomes unwell during care, they will be isolated in a comfortable space and parents contacted for immediate pickup.

Minimum Exclusion Periods for Common Illnesses:
- Fever (38°C or higher): Exclude until fever-free for 24 hours without medication.
- Diarrhoea & Vomiting: Exclude for at least 48 hours after the last episode.
- Conjunctivitis: Exclude until discharge from the eye has ceased.
- Hand, Foot & Mouth Disease: Exclude until blisters have dried and child is feeling well.
- Chickenpox: Exclude until all blisters have dried (usually 5-7 days).
- Influenza & Respiratory Infections: Exclude until symptoms have resolved and the child is well.
- COVID-19: Follow current public health guidelines for testing and isolation.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella: Follow health authority guidelines; exclusion may vary.
- Head Lice: Children can return after the first treatment and no live lice are present.

Notification to Families:
- Parents will be informed of outbreaks of contagious illnesses via written notice or direct communication.
- Privacy will be maintained—children will not be named in any communication.

Re-Admittance to Care:
- Children may return once they meet the exclusion criteria and are symptom-free.
- A doctor’s clearance may be required for certain contagious illnesses.