Exclusion and isolation for school and daycare

Isolation and exclusion are often used to prevent the spread of infection through a school or daycare.

Isolation refers to the physical separation of the ill child from other children.

Space in the daycare or school should be made available to temporarily isolate a child who is unwell. Once symptoms have started the child should be isolated until he or she can be picked up by parents or guardians.

Isolation is used as a temporary solution so that the ill child does not interact with other children while he or she is infectious. Isolation should not be used as a long-term solution.

Exclusion of ill children and staff from the facility may be necessary to prevent the spread of infection. The length of the exclusion is dependent upon the cause of the illness. A public health inspector or public health nurse can assist with the assessment.

It is important to note that, while it is strongly recommended, public health legislation does not require schools to exclude ill children or staff. However, daycares are required to follow the exclusion requirements listed for certain infections.

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This item was last modified on July 21, 2015