Health update: infection prevention and illness prevention in nurseries
Summer can feel like a break from bugs, but this year the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reports in some areas there has been an increase in viral illnesses spreading within childcare settings. Most cause only mild illness, but they can sometimes lead to serious complications.
The best way to stop infections spreading is by consistently following everyday infection prevention measures.
By following good hygiene practices and keeping to recommended stay-at-home periods when children are unwell, nurseries can help keep children and staff healthy.
Key actions for childcare settings
To help protect children, staff and families, please continue to prioritise:
- effective hand hygiene for both children and staff, particularly after using the toilet, nappy changing, before eating and after outdoor play
- prompt cleaning and disinfection of frequently touched surfaces, toys and shared equipment
- appropriate health related exclusion of children and staff who are unwell, especially those with diarrhoea and/or vomiting, in line with national guidance on infectious diseases in children and young people
- good respiratory hygiene, encouraging children to catch coughs and sneezes in tissues and dispose of them appropriately
- ensuring adequate supplies of soap, paper towels and cleaning materials are available at all times
Reminding parents and carers
Parents are encouraged to:
- keep children at home when they are unwell
- follow recommended 48 hour exclusion periods for diarrhoea and vomiting illnesses in line with national guidance on infectious diseases in children and young people
- seek medical advice if they are concerned about their child’s symptoms
- support good handwashing habits at home