From the Guidelines
A child with RSV can typically return to daycare when they have been fever-free for at least 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medications and when their symptoms have significantly improved, as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics 1. This approach is based on reducing the risk of transmission to other children, as RSV spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, and through direct contact with contaminated surfaces. Some key considerations for returning to daycare include:
- The child should no longer have severe coughing, wheezing, or difficulty breathing
- Most children with RSV remain contagious for 3-8 days, though some infants and those with weakened immune systems may continue to spread the virus for up to 4 weeks
- It's essential to follow the daycare's specific illness policy, as some facilities may require a doctor's note before readmission
- Ensuring the child is well-hydrated and comfortable during recovery is crucial, as there is no specific medication that cures RSV
- High-risk infants, such as those with congenital heart disease or chronic lung disease, may need to take extra precautions to avoid exposure to RSV, including restricting participation in group child care during the RSV season 1.
From the Research
Return to Daycare with RSV
- There is no specific information in the provided studies regarding when a child with RSV can return to daycare.
- However, the studies discuss the prevention and treatment of RSV infection in high-risk children, including the use of palivizumab 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- The American Academy of Pediatrics has guidelines for the use of palivizumab in high-risk children, but these guidelines do not address return to daycare specifically 3.
- The decision to return to daycare after an RSV infection would likely depend on the child's individual circumstances and the policies of the daycare center.
- It is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional for guidance on when a child with RSV can return to daycare.
- Some studies suggest that palivizumab can reduce the risk of hospitalization due to RSV infection and may result in a large reduction in RSV infections 4.
- However, the provided studies do not provide a clear answer to the question of when a child with RSV can return to daycare.