What if my child has COVID-19 symptoms?

From School Nurse, Shona Stack

What to do if your child has symptoms

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4/16/21

Hello Carlos Gilbert families:

Thank you for your part in a smooth reentry transition! It has been a joy to see so many students at school in person. Here is a list of frequently asked questions in the Nurse’s Office these past few weeks:

1. What are potential Covid-like symptoms? Fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, sore throat, congestion or runny nose*, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or new loss of taste or smell. (*Underlined for emphasis - these are the most common symptoms at school that have required students to be sent home and follow the protocol below.)
   

2. What should I do if my child doesn’t feel well before school? If your child has any of the symptoms above, there are strict Public Education Department protocols we must follow. Even if you think the symptoms are due to a mild cold or a chronic medical condition such as seasonal allergies or migraines, you are still required to follow these steps:

   1. Keep your child home. He/she may learn remotely if feeling well enough.

   2. Contact the school nurse’s office.

      1. Shona and Marissa

      2. Or call 505-467-4705

   3. Choose one of three options for your child to be able to return in person:

      1. Get a test. Students may return with a negative result if fever-free and symptoms improving; OR

      2. Get a note from your child’s doctor documenting that the symptoms are due to a chronic medical condition such as seasonal allergies; OR

      3. Quarantine for 10 days. Keep your child home to learn remotely for 10 days.

3. Where can I get my child tested? Rapid tests are acceptable and can be scheduled at CVS or Walgreens. Other testing options are found here: NM Covid Testing Sites

Please reach out to Shona or Marissa if you have questions - we are here to help!