Irish parents urged to keep sick children at home ahead of schools reopening

The Chief Medical Officer (CMO) is urging parents to keep sick children at home due to high levels of respiratory viruses in the community. 

Professor Breda Smyth made the appeal as flu, Covid-19 and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) remains prevalent across Ireland, with the viruses accounting for more than over 1,000 hospitalisations last week. 

Speaking today (January 4), she said, "As schools and childcare facilities re-open after the Christmas break, I am urging parents to be vigilant for symptoms of respiratory viruses in children. If your child has any new-onset flu-like symptoms such as congestion, cough, runny nose or high temperature, parents should continue to be mindful of others and, if possible, keep their children at home from school or childcare facilities. 

"Children should be kept at home for at least 48 hours after their symptoms have fully or substantially resolved. The vast majority of respiratory illnesses can be treated successfully at home with over-the-counter medication. There is very good advice on the HSE website, Under the Weather.

"However, parents should trust their instincts and seek medical attention if required."

To aid the overburdened healthcare system, people are being urged to help reduce the spread of infection by practising good respiratory etiquette, cleaning hands, wearing masks on public transport and in crowded places, and ensuring good ventilation where possible. 

Eligible people can also still receive a flu vaccine, which takes two weeks to become effective. 

She said, "As we are still in the middle of flu season, I am appealing to parents to please consider the flu vaccine for your child. It’s a nasal spray and is administered free of charge by GPs and pharmacists.

"I would also encourage people to keep up to date with their Covid-19 vaccines and please make an appointment for a booster if you are eligible."