My Child is Showing Signs of COVID-19 at School: What Do I Do?

Quick Guide for Parents and Guardians

1. Pick Up Your Child

If possible, pick up your child alone.
If possible, wait in the car for your child.
Everyone in the car should wear a mask except for children under 2 years old.
Open the car windows for ventilation.
If possible, wait 24 hours before cleaning and disinfecting your car, as that allows more time for the amount of virus in the air of your car to die off.
If unable to pick up your child, work with your school to identify the best way to safely transport your child.
Arrange to pick up any of your child’s medical supplies (if applicable).

2. Keep your child at home and monitor their symptoms

Call your child’s healthcare provider to discuss whether your child needs to be evaluated and to determine options for getting tested for COVID-19.
If possible, have the sick child (and anyone else who has symptoms) keep away from others and use a separate bathroom for 10 days. When not able to keep away from others, a mask should be worn by all members of the household.
After being in contact with someone with COVID-19, it can take up to 14 days to know if you are sick.
All members of the household should stay home and avoid contact with others outside of your home.
An exception would be going to your doctor if advised.
Encourage everyone in the household to wash their hands often and avoid sharing personal household items with others (e.g., dishes, cups, towels, bedding).
Use an effective household disinfectant to clean “high-touch” surfaces and everyday items such as door handles, countertops, and faucets.

3. If your child tests positive for or is suspected of
having COVID-19.

If your child tests positive for COVID-19, notify the school.
Your child can return to in-person school only after:
It has been at least 10 days since symptoms started and
Overall symptoms have improved and
Your child has had no fever for at least 24 hours (without fever reducing medication).