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.