Health Notice to Parents & Guardians

We’ve recently seen an increase in cases of influenza, gastroenteritis, head lice, and conjunctivitis within our school community. To help prevent the spread of these illnesses, please refer to the attached Queensland Health Time Out Guidelines for recommended exclusion periods. These guidelines help protect all children by reducing the risk of transmission from sick individuals.

Free flu vaccines are available at GPs and pharmacies until 30 September 2025.

Please keep children home if unwell and encourage good hygiene i.e. handwashing and covering coughs/sneezes with a tissue or elbow.

• Influenza: Exclude until symptoms have resolved, usually 5-7 days.

Symptoms typically appear 1-3 days after infection, and individuals can be contagious before symptoms show. Common signs include fever, sore throat, dry cough, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue.

• Gastroenteritis: Exclude until at least 24 hours after symptoms (vomiting/diarrhoea) have stopped and the child is feeling well.

• Head lice: Children can return to school once effective treatment has commenced. 

• Conjunctivitis: Exclude until eye discharge has ceased, unless diagnosed as non-infectious by a doctor (medical certificate recommended).

Following these rules helps keep your child and others healthy. If you're unsure about your child’s symptoms or exclusion requirements, please consult your doctor or contact your local Public Health Unit.