Do NOT send kids to school if they're poorly, urge Rutland health bosses

It comes after the UK Health Security Agency issued new advice

Author: Ellis MaddisonPublished 4th Jan 2023

Parents across Stamford and Rutland are being urged to make sure kids are healthy before sending them to school.

It's after new guidance was issued by the UK Health Security Agency to protect children and family relatives as kids return to school.

Adults are also being urged to wear a mask if they're unwell and going out is absolutely necessary

There's concern that Flu and COVID-19 cases circulating 'at high levels' will increase over the coming weeks, while high numbers of scarlet fever are also being reported.

Mike Sandys, public health director for Rutland, said:

'At the moment, because you can see the pressure that our hospitals are under, if you are able to keep your children off school if they are unwell then you should.

'Really, you should be treating it as if it's the Covid days...'

Professor Susan Hopkins, Chief Medical Adviser at the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), said:

"It’s important to minimise the spread of infection in schools and other education and childcare settings as much as possible. If your child is unwell and has a fever, they should stay home from school or nursery until they feel better and the fever has resolved.

"Helping children to learn about the importance of good hand hygiene is also key, so practice regular handwashing at home with soap and warm water. Catching coughs and sneezes in tissues then binning them is another simple way to help stop illness from spreading.

"Adults should also try to stay home when unwell and if you do have to go out, wear a face covering. When unwell don’t visit healthcare settings or visit vulnerable people unless urgent."

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