Information for Parents and Caregivers
If your child has symptoms:
Use the COVID-19 assessment tool |
If your child is symptomatic or has tested positive for COVID-19, use the Ontario Ministry of Health’s Self-Assessment Tool to learn more about what to do next. If your child is sick, they should stay home from school or daycare Stay home until any fever is gone and other symptoms have been getting better for at least 24 hours (48 hours if they had vomiting or diarrhea). |
Test for COVID-19 if needed |
COVID-19 testing and treatments are available to certain groups. If your child is at high risk of severe illness, speak to your child’s health care provider as soon as possible after symptoms develop. |
Masking |
Whether it is COVID-19 or another respiratory virus, masking can help reduce the spread of illness. Once your child is well enough to return to activities, they should do the following for 10 days:
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Managing Illness at Home |
According to the Ontario College of Family Physicians, “Most respiratory illness in children, including colds, influenza, RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) and COVID-19 can be managed at home without the need for prescription medications. However, in some cases, it is important to seek medical care.” |
Getting Medical Advice and Medical Care |
Ontario’s Health811 service connects you to health advice anytime. You can call 811 to speak with a registered nurse 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Seek medical attention if your child has any of the following:
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Protecting against and preventing respiratory illness
Vaccination |
Vaccines are safe, effective and the best way to protect you and those around you from infectious diseases. Ontario provides publicly funded vaccines for children to protect against influenza and COVID-19. Learn more about helping your child get their flu shot and/or COVID-19 vaccination. |
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) |
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a major cause of lower respiratory illness, particularly among infants, young children, and older adults. It affects the lungs and airways. The infection is most severe in young babies and older adults and can cause serious lung infections that may require hospitalization. Learn more about the signs and symptoms of RSV, treatment, and how to protect yourself and others. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) | Ontario Ministry of Health Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) fact sheet | Ontario Ministry of Health |
Masking |
As respiratory viruses circulate, consider wearing a well-fitted, high-quality mask in crowded indoor settings with poor ventilation. Wearing a mask indoors is especially recommended for those who are at higher risk of getting very sick. Children aged 2 to 5 should only wear a mask if they are being supervised, if they can safely tolerate masking, and if they can put on and take off the mask themselves. |
Handwashing and respiratory etiquette |
Learn more about the layers of protection, including handwashing, at How to Reduce Spread of Illness. |