Table of Contents
The start of a new school year is an exciting time for parents and children alike. However, with the ongoing threat of COVID-19, it’s important for parents to stay up-to-date on the latest guidance and take necessary precautions to keep their children safe and healthy. In this article, we will provide an overview of the current COVID-19 situation, symptoms to watch out for, when to keep your child home from school, testing options, the need for booster shots, the use of masks, and preventive measures parents can take to minimize the risk of COVID-19.
Is COVID still dangerous?
As we enter the 2023-2024 school year, it’s important to note that COVID-19 is no longer classified as an emergency. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the U.S. have both declared an end to the COVID-19 public health emergency. However, experts emphasize that the end of the emergency does not mean the end of the pandemic. COVID-19 continues to claim lives and there is still a risk of new variants emerging.
While vaccines have improved health outcomes for many, the long-term impacts of COVID-19 are still being studied. Research suggests that between one month and one year after having COVID-19, one in five people ages 18 to 64 may have at least one medical condition that could be attributed to the virus. Children account for over 15 million COVID-19 diagnoses in the U.S. since the start of the pandemic, and a recent study found that 1 in 5 children experience long COVID symptoms months after infection.
Symptoms of COVID to Watch Out For
The most common symptoms of COVID-19 have remained mostly the same since the start of the pandemic. Parents should be aware of the following symptoms:
- Fever
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Upset stomach
- Headache
- Loss of taste and/or smell
In some cases, children may develop other rare symptoms such as conjunctivitis (pink eye), unexplained skin rashes, or swelling/discoloration on the fingers and toes.
It’s important to note that COVID symptoms can vary in severity or may not be present at all. Some children may experience intense symptoms, while others may have mild symptoms or be asymptomatic.
When Should My Child Stay Home from School?
Keeping sick children home from school is crucial to prevent the spread of infections. Pediatricians generally recommend keeping children home from school or daycare if they have any of the following signs of illness:
- Fever above 100.4 degrees
- Persistent cough and/or congestion
- Rashes, blisters, or spreading lesions
- Stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting
- Sore throat
- Headache
- Loss of taste and/or smell
If your child exhibits symptoms consistent with COVID-19, it is recommended to keep them home and have them tested for the virus. If the test is positive, they should stay home and away from others for at least five days from the onset of symptoms, according to CDC recommendations. It is important to follow the guidance of your child’s pediatrician regarding testing and when it is safe for them to return to school.
COVID-19 Testing for Kids
If your child has symptoms of COVID-19 or has been exposed to someone who tested positive, there are two types of tests that can be administered: at-home COVID antigen tests or polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests available at doctor’s offices and pharmacies.
For at-home antigen tests, the FDA recommends testing more than once to prevent false negatives. The testing guidelines are as follows:
- If a COVID test is positive, the result is likely accurate, and isolation should begin.
- If a COVID test is negative but symptoms are present, a second test should be administered 48 hours after the first one.
- If a child has no symptoms but has been exposed to COVID, they should also be tested at least twice in a 48-hour period.
During the testing period, it is important for those with COVID symptoms to avoid contact with others to prevent transmission of the virus. If you have any questions about COVID test results or whether it’s safe for your children to go to school, consult your child’s pediatrician.
Do Children Need COVID Booster Shots?
COVID vaccines play a crucial role in preventing severe symptoms and side effects of the virus. As of now, the most up-to-date COVID vaccination is the monovalent XBB.1.5 booster shot authorized in the fall. The CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older without contraindications should receive the updated shot. If you have questions about the updated COVID vaccine or if your child recently had a COVID infection, consult your child’s pediatrician for guidance on the best timing for vaccination.
Should Children Wear Masks at School?
While mask mandates have been lifted in many areas, masks can still be a useful tool in preventing the spread of COVID-19. The CDC recommends wearing a well-fitted, high-quality face mask in the following situations:
- You live in an area with high rates of infection and hospitalization.
- You are at a high risk of severe illness.
- You have household or social contacts who are at high risk.
Masks are also recommended on public transportation, and they can provide extra protection in indoor public places. Although most schools no longer require masks, they can still be beneficial, especially during peak sickness times such as the start of the school year or during cold and flu season. Wearing masks during these times can help reduce the risk of virus transmission.
Preventive Measures for a Healthy School Year
In addition to mask usage, there are other preventive measures parents can take to minimize the risk of COVID-19 and other illnesses. Here are some tips:
- Check community rates of infection in your area, if available.
- Review proper hand hygiene with your children and encourage regular handwashing.
- Remind children not to share food or drinks with others.
- Encourage children to respect personal space and practice social distancing.
- Stay flexible and adjust to each situation, following the latest guidance from the CDC and consulting your child’s pediatrician when needed.
By following these measures and staying informed, parents can help create a safe and healthy school environment for their children. While COVID-19 may continue to be a part of our lives, with the guidance of experts and proactive precautions, we can navigate the school year with confidence.