1.4 Identify exclusion periods for common childhood illnesses

This guide will help you answer 1.4 Identify exclusion periods for common childhood illnesses.

When working with young children, you must manage their health needs effectively. One significant aspect of this is knowing when a child should be excluded from a setting due to illness. This not only protects the sick child but also reduces the spread of infections to other children and staff. Always check the latest guidance from the NHS and medical professionals.

Purpose of Exclusion Periods

Exclusion periods help contain the spread of contagious illnesses. By keeping sick children at home, you protect healthy children and prevent outbreaks in your setting. The length of exclusion depends on the illness and its contagious period.

Common Childhood Illnesses and Their Exclusion Guidelines

Here we’ll outline exclusion periods for some common childhood ailments. This guidance aligns with the Health Protection Agency’s recommendations and should be routinely updated as guidelines change.

Chickenpox

Chickenpox is a contagious viral infection characterised by an itchy rash and red spots or blisters. Children should remain at home until all blisters have crusted over. This usually takes about five days from the onset of the rash.

Diarrhoea and Vomiting

These symptoms can be caused by infections like norovirus. Children should be excluded until they have been symptom-free for 48 hours. This ensures that the child is no longer contagious and reduces the risk of an outbreak.

Measles

Measles is highly contagious and features symptoms such as a rash, fever, and cough. Exclude children for at least four days after the onset of the rash. Vaccination is essential for prevention, so ensure your setting encourages uptake of the MMR vaccine.

Mumps

This viral infection causes swollen glands under the ears. Children should stay at home for five days after the swelling appears. Like measles, the MMR vaccine is essential in preventing mumps.

Rubella (German Measles)

Rubella can cause a mild rash and swelling of glands. Children should be excluded for four days from the appearance of the rash. Pregnant women should avoid exposure due to risks to the unborn child.

Whooping Cough (Pertussis)

Whooping cough presents as a severe cough. Children should be kept out of the setting for 48 hours from starting antibiotic treatment or 21 days from the start of the cough if untreated. Vaccination significantly reduces the risk.

Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease

This infection is common in children and causes sores in the mouth and rashes on the hands and feet. Exclusion is generally not necessary unless the child is unwell. This approach may vary in outbreaks.

Scarlet Fever

Scarlet fever presents with a sore throat, fever, and a characteristic rash. Children should be excluded for 24 hours after starting appropriate antibiotic treatment. Prompt medical attention and antibiotics prevent complications.

Conjunctivitis

For mild conjunctivitis, exclusion is not necessary. Teach good hygiene practices such as hand washing to manage the condition.

Managing Illness in Child Care Settings

As a practitioner, maintain good communication with parents about exclusion policies. Ensure they understand the benefits of these measures not just for their child, but for the entire setting.

Hygiene Practices

Implement strict hygiene practices, including regular handwashing and cleaning of toys and surfaces. These efforts decrease the likelihood of infections spreading.

Infection Control Training

Provide regular training for your staff on infection prevention. This prepares them to handle outbreaks effectively and reassures parents of their children’s safety.

Health Policies and Procedures

Have clear, written health policies. Review these periodically with your team and update them according to the latest health guidelines. Clear policies provide a reference for dealing with illnesses as they arise.

Sterling Communication with Parents

Inform and reassure parents about your setting’s health measures. When parents know exactly how you handle health issues, they’re more confident in your care for their child.

Effective Communication Strategies

• Send out newsletters detailing health measures and updates.
• Hold meetings or orientations to explain your policies.
• Use signage around the setting to remind parents of exclusion periods.

Empathetic Interaction

When discussing a child’s illness with parents, use empathy. Understand their concerns and provide reassurance. Always be clear about why exclusion is necessary and how it protects all children.

Child’s Return to the Setting

Set clear guidelines on what is needed for a child’s return, such as a doctor’s note if required. Evaluate each child on their suitability to return by checking symptoms have resolved according to exclusion guidelines.

Assessing Readiness

Check:

• The child is symptom-free within the outlined timeframe.
• Any necessary medical clearance is completed.
• The child is well enough to participate in activities.

Conclusion of Exclusion Periods

Having a sound understanding of exclusion periods is essential in effectively managing a child care setting. It safeguards both children and staff from infectious diseases. Consistent application of these guidelines ensures a healthy, safe, and welcoming environment for all involved.