NHS message to parents on illnesses that could keep children off school

The NHS posted on X ahead of changes this week with guidance covering 18 illnesses that may affect whether a child should stay home from school; it says mild COVID-19 symptoms do not always require staying home but a high temperature or not feeling well does. It also asks parents to contact a GP for suspected measles and keep the child off school for at least four days after the rash appears.

The NHS has issued guidance for parents ahead of changes this week. The message was posted on X and links to a full list intended to help decide if a child should stay off school, nursery or playgroup. The guidance references around 18 illnesses, with examples such as high temperature, cough, and nits. It highlights specific points about COVID-19 and measles and points readers to public health education resources. Key points: - The NHS posted on X and linked to its website with guidance for parents on whether children should attend school when unwell. - The list covers 18 illnesses that may be relevant to school attendance, including high temperature, cough, and nits. - On COVID-19, the NHS reports that children with mild symptoms (for example a runny nose, sore throat or slight cough) who feel well enough can attend school, but it says children should try to stay home if they have a high temperature or do not feel well enough to do normal activities. - For measles, the NHS advises calling the GP before visiting, keeping the child off school for at least four days from when the rash first appears, and avoiding close contact with babies, pregnant people, or those with weakened immune systems. - GOV.UK and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) are cited for complementary resources, including free e-Bug lesson plans for ages 3–16 to support hygiene and infection-prevention education in schools. Summary: The NHS guidance aims to clarify when children may need to miss school for illness and directs parents and schools to further resources and official advice. Undetermined at this time.