Fever and returning to school...

Like most schools, ours says DC must be "fever-free" for 24 hours before returning to school. My question is, do they mean 98.6? I know some people consider a fever to be 100 or more, or somewhere around there. DS feels fine and wants to go back as he is getting bored here, but is not quite 98.6 yet (been 99 point something all day today). Do I have to wait for 98.6?

Re: Fever and returning to school...

"Although a fever could be considered any body temperature above the normal 98.6 F (37 C), medically, a person is not considered to have a significant fever until the temperature is above 100.4 F (38.0 C). Most fever is beneficial, causes no problems, and helps the body fight off infections."

Fever and returning to school...

If your child was sick, and had a fever that prevented him from going to school, and now that fever is dropping, but not his normal temperature, I would say to keep him home. He is still sick.

Fever and returning to school...

Thank you both - I guess we will monitor the temp and see how he's feeling. I don't want anyone else getting sick.

Re: Fever and returning to school...

Crashing.. I am a school nurse. Less than 100 without medication is the guidelines nys follows.

Re: Fever and returning to school...

My ped days no fever. They must be under 100.4 with no fever reducers (I.e. Motrin or Tylenol). I go with 99 if they feel good. My kids will still feel sick at 100 anyway. But they do not have to be 98. Some people run warmer.

Fever and returning to school...

Thanks for the additional info! We haven't given him any fever reducers and it has lowered on its own, but now he is sniffly and his nose is stuffed so we may keep him home for that. Love this time of year!