Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 July 2020
553. Deputy Emer Higgins asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if there is a policy by which children cannot attend crèches if their temperature is above a certain level; if they must stay away from the crèche for a duration of time as a result; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17228/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraExpert guidance on the safe reopening of childcare services during the COVID-19 pandemic was published by the HSE Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC) on Friday, 29 May. The HPSC guidance clearly states that parents should be advised not to bring their child to the service if they are displaying any of the symptoms of Covid-19 (including high temperature, cough, shortness of breath, or difficulty breathing). In line with HSE guidance, any individual displaying symptoms of Covid-19 should self-isolate immediately and contact their GP. The GP will advise them as to whether testing is required and what steps they should take, including if and when a child may return to an early learning and care or school-age childcare service.
The HPSC guidance also sets out the steps to be taken by childcare services where a child is suspected of having symptoms of Covid-19 (such as a high temperature) while in the service i.e. the child should be isolated from other children, their parent/s should be contacted and asked to collect them and the parent should be advised to contact their GP for further advice. If the child tests positive for Covid-19 the local public health department will make contact with the service and with any close contacts in order to advise them on what steps they need to take.
