- Santa Monica-Malibu Unif Sd
- Feeling Sick?
Feeling sick?
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When to Keep Your Child Home from School
If your child was sent home or did not attend school because of one or more symptom(s) of illness, please follow the instructions below. Please alert the school site attendance clerk if your child will be absent.
Contact a health care provider if your child needs medical care. A doctor’s note is generally not required to return to school or child care.
For more information, please visit the LACDPH guidance page. 2024 Symptom Guidance
Communicable Diseases
Communicable diseases may be transmitted from person to person and are the most common cause of school absenteeism. It is important to know how communicable diseases are transmitted, diagnosed and treated and what precautions can be taken to prevent their occurrence or their spread.
The body fluids and substances of all persons should be considered potentially infectious for various diseases. While the risk of infection from several different organisms is present, the exact risk depends on a variety of factors. Many disease-causing bacteria and viruses may be carried in the body fluids of persons who have no symptoms of illness. This may be a problem because if the carrier or infected individual appears to be healthy, precautions might not be taken.
Full cooperation with the Public Health Department is expected when requested during an outbreak.
Legal References
California Education Code Communicable Disease
Handwashing
Handwashing at home, at play, and out and about
Flu Fact Sheet
Flu symptoms: when to seek medical careHand Hygiene
Washing your hands is easy, and it’s one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs. Clean hands can help stop germs from spreading from one person to another and in our communities, including your home, workplace, schools, and childcare facilities.
Follow these five steps every time.
- Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), turn off the tap, and apply soap.
- Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.
- Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the “Happy Birthday” song from beginning to end twice.
- Rinse your hands well under clean, running water.
- Dry your hands using a clean towel or an air dryer.
Masking
Respiratory infections can spread from person to person via respiratory droplets of coughs and sneezes. Layered prevention strategies — like staying up to date on vaccines and wearing masks — can help prevent severe illness and reduce the potential for strain on the healthcare system. Wear a mask with the best fit, protection, and comfort for you.