The CDC updated its Respiratory Virus Guidance on March 1, 2024, prioritizing prevention by staying up-to-date on vaccines, practicing good hygiene by covering coughs and sneezes, washing or sanitizing hands often, cleaning frequently touched surfaces, and taking steps for cleaner air to help reduce the spread of respiratory viruses by bringing in fresh air through an open window, using an air purifier, or having outdoor social activities.

The following advice is similar to what has been recommended for the flu for decades and will help reduce the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses during the most contagious period after infection. Not all respiratory viruses result in fever, so paying attention to other symptoms (cough, muscle aches, etc.) is important in determining when someone is well enough to leave home. If symptoms are getting better and stay better for 24 hours, it is less likely that the infection will spread to others.

In the event someone does get sick, the updated guidance recommends two actions:

Step 1: Stay at home. Stay at home as much as possible and away from others until at least 24 hours after both:

 1) Symptoms are getting better overall, and

2) There has been no fever (without the use of fever-reducing medication).

Step 2: Resume normal activities, and use added prevention strategies over the next 5 days, including enhancing hygiene practices, wearing a well-fitting mask, keeping distance from others, and taking steps for cleaner air.

Symptoms caused by influenza (Flu), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and COVID-19 can be very similar. Check this symptom chart to learn how to tell them apart or go to the AAP’s parenting website. If you think you might be sick from one of these viruses, call your healthcare provider. Antiviral medications may be available to help manage symptoms, but are generally only prescribed in the first 2–3 days of getting sick, so don't delay!

Remember the District Illness Guidelines: If your child has had a fever (temperature above 100.4° F), vomiting, or diarrhea in the last 24 hours, they should not be at school. Please keep them home until they have been symptom-free, without fever-reducing medication, for 24 hours. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your child’s health, please call your school nurse.