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Medical Protocol

How Sick is Too Sick?

When Children and Staff Should Stay Home from School or Child Care

Evaluation of a sick child must consider which diseases are currently circulating among students, staff, and the community. Known exposure to cases or an outbreak of a contagious disease (including but not limited to those listed here), even without a confirmed diagnosis, may necessitate more stringent return to school requirements.

During Colorado's ongoing response to the COVID-19 pandemic, children and staff who have symptoms consistent with COVID-19 should receive testing, and follow the COVID-19 isolation guidance until testing is completed or if they test positive. If the individual tests negative for COVID-19, the individual should then follow the recommendations for their disease or symptoms using the below guidance. There are four main reasons to keep children and adults at home:

1. The student or staff member is at risk of infecting others with COVID-19 or another contagious illness, either because of symptoms or recent close contact

2. The student or staff member does not feel well enough to take part in usual activities. For example, a child is overly tired, fussy or will not stop crying.

4. The student or staff member has symptoms or an illness is on this list, and staying home is required.

  • Feeling Feverish, having chills or Fever (Temperature of 100.4°F or greater) The student or staff member must go 24 hours without fevers to be able to come back to school.
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Nausea, Vomiting/Throwing Up 
  • Diarrhea (Frequent, loose, or watery stools (poop) compared to normal ones that are not caused by food or medicine)
  • Cough*
  • Sore throat
  • Runny nose or congestion
  • Muscle or body aches
  • Headache
  • Fatigue
  • New Loss of Taste or Smell**

5. Should a student or staff member go to the doctor and test positive, they must stay home for 5 days and it is recommended they wear a mask upon return to school for the following 5 days.

For more district health services please visit our district website