Common Colds
Incubation period:
Varies depending on the virus.
Signs and symptoms:
Runny nose, sneezing, cough, sore throat, tiredness, headache, loss of appetite, fever.
How it is spread:
Direct and indirect contact with respiratory tract secretions of an infected person.
Contagious period:
Varies depending on the virus.
Exclusion guidelines:
Exclude if child has a fever. Child may go to school or day nursery if he feels well enough to take part in normal activities.
What can be done:
Clean and disinfect soiled articles and surfaces.
Thorough and frequent hand washing by staff and children.