Staying Home - When Your Child is Sick
If you think that your child has an illness that can be spread to others, please keep him or her home from school or childcare.
Contact your healthcare provider or clinic if you think medical attention is needed.
Staying Home When Your Child is Sick: SC Department of Public Health
Dear Parents/Caregivers:
Help your child stay healthy and ready to learn! We hope that your child never has to miss school or childcare because of sickness. For many illnesses it is OK to go to school, especially when symptoms are mild. Frequent handwashing and staying up to date with vaccinations can help prevent illnesses. DPH publishes the School and Childcare Exclusion List each year.
The Exclusion List explains how long ill children should stay out of school or childcare, and what is needed before returning. Your child’s healthcare provider can also help if you have questions about your child’s health.
Information for specific illnesses can be found on the School and Childcare Exclusion List on the web at the following address: https://dph.sc.gov/health-wellness/child-teen-health/school-exclusion
Frequently Asked Questions
When should sick children stay home from school or childcare?
If your child feels too sick to go to school or childcare and is unable to participate in activities, please keep him or her at home.
Does my child need to stay home when the child just has a cold?
Most children with mild colds who have no fever (without taking fever reducing medication) and who feel well enough to go to school or childcare do not need to stay home.
Does my child need to be out of school or childcare if the child has pinkeye?
No. It is helpful to think of pinkeye like the common cold—it usually clears up without medicine.
How long will my child need to stay home if the child is sick?
The School and Childcare Exclusion List explains how long children should stay home after they become sick with certain illnesses.
When would my child have to stay home if my child is not sick?
Sometimes children will have to stay home from school or childcare if they are exposed to certain diseases. Your school, childcare center, or local health department will discuss the amount of time with you.
What illness might keep my child from participating in other activities?
Children with illnesses that can be spread to others may not be allowed to participate in some sports, physical education, or other school activities.