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Lampeter-Strasburg School District

Learning. Listening. Leading. Linking.

Health and Wellness

Public Health Resources

When Is Sick Too Sick for School?
A regular attendance routine is important for your child's well-being and learning. These tips can help you decide when to keep your child home when they don't feel well.

If you don't know whether to send your child to school, have specific concerns regarding your child's physical or mental health, or are worried your child will spread illness, contact your child's health care provider, a local urgent care, or the school nurse. These tips are not meant to take the place of local health department/school district guidance, including about contagious illnesses such as COVID or the flu. 

This material is courtesy of Attendance Works, Kaiser Permanente, and the National Association of School Nurses.

A white line drawing of a school building with a flag on top, set against a green circle.

SEND ME TO SCHOOL IF . . .

  • I have a runny nose or just a little cough, but no other symptoms.
  • I have NOT had a fever overnight and have NOT taken fever-reducing medicine during that time.
  • I have a mild stomachache.
  • I have not thrown up overnight and can drink liquids without throwing up.
  • I have a mild rash and no other symptoms.
  • I have eye drainage WITHOUT fever, eye pain, or eyelid redness.

A white line drawing of a house inside a yellow circle.

KEEP ME AT HOME IF . . .

  • I have a temperature higher than 100.4.
  • I have thrown up two or more times in the past 24 hours.
  • My stool is watery and I may not make it to the bathroom in time.

Icon of a doctor behind a desk, with a clock and computer, inside a red circle.

SEEK MEDICAL CARE IF . . . 

  • I have a temperature higher than 100.4 AND any of the following: ear pain, sore throat, rash, stomachache, headache, or tooth pain.
  • I have stomach pain and fever, I have bloody or black stool, or I am dehydrated (tired and sleepy, dry mouth) and/or have not urinated in the last 8 hours.
  • I have a persistent cough or trouble breathing, or have a fever with the cough.
  • I have eye swelling, eye pain, or an eye injury.
  • I have a rash that has blisters, is draining, is painful, looks like bruises, and/or I have a fever with a rash.

Cold & Flu Season - What Can You Do to Stop the Spread

  • Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
  • Wear a mask when in public places.
  • Cover any coughs or sneezes with your elbow, do not use your hands!
  • Clean surfaces frequently, such as countertops, light switches, cell phones, and other frequently-touched areas.
  • Practice social distancing - stay home as much as you can.
  • Avoid touching your face.
  • Contain - if you are sick, stay home until you feel better.

Mental Health Resources

Please visit our Student & Family Services page for a comprehensive list of mental health resources, including hotlines. 

Mindfulness Apps

Student & Family Resources

Please visit our Student & Family Services page for a comprehensive list of resources for families in need of assistance with food, clothing, and other necessities. Please contact your child's school counselor or the district social worker for additional information.