Back-to-School Illnesses: What Parents Should Know Before the First Day 

As summer comes to an end and school routines begin again, families are preparing new schedules, new activities, and—often—new germs. The start of the school year is a common time for children to experience an increase in illnesses as they spend more time together in classrooms, cafeterias, and extracurricular activities. 

While some illnesses are unavoidable, knowing what to watch for and when to seek care can help parents feel more prepared. 

Common Back-to-School Illnesses to Watch For 

Children may encounter a variety of common illnesses during the school year, including: 

Colds and respiratory viruses
Runny noses, coughs, sore throats, and congestion are common among school-aged children, especially as they are exposed to more viruses in close-contact environments. 

Strep throat 
Strep throat is a bacterial infection that can cause a sore throat, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and difficulty swallowing. If your child has these symptoms—especially without a cough—it may be worth having them evaluated. 

Pink eye (conjunctivitis) 
Redness, irritation, itching, and discharge from the eye can be signs of pink eye. Some cases may require treatment before a child can return to school. 

Hand, foot, and mouth disease 
This common childhood illness can cause fever, mouth sores, and a rash on the hands and feet. It often spreads easily among young children in group settings. 

Stomach bugs 
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach discomfort can occur throughout the year and may spread quickly among children. 

When Should Your Child Stay Home From School? 

Knowing when your child is well enough to return to school can be challenging. In general, children should stay home if they have symptoms that prevent them from comfortably participating in normal activities, including: 

• Fever 

• Significant fatigue or weakness 

• Vomiting or diarrhea 

• Difficulty breathing 

• Symptoms that are worsening instead of improving 

Always check your child’s school or childcare policies, as guidelines may vary. 

When Should You Seek Medical Care? 

Many childhood illnesses can be managed with rest, fluids, and monitoring at home. However, you may want to contact a healthcare provider if your child has: 

• A persistent or high fever 

• Trouble breathing 

• Signs of dehydration 

• Severe pain 

• Symptoms that are getting worse or not improving 

• Concerns about a possible infection that may require testing or treatment 

If you’re unsure whether your child needs to be seen, a pediatric healthcare provider can help guide you on the next best step. 

Helping Your Child Stay Healthy This School Year 

A few simple habits can help reduce the spread of illness and support your child’s health: 

• Encourage frequent handwashing with soap and water 

• Remind children to avoid touching their eyes, nose, and mouth 

• Teach children to cover coughs and sneezes 

• Keep children home when they are feeling too sick to participate in daily activities 

• Make sure your child gets enough sleep and stays hydrated 

• Keep routine vaccinations and preventive care up to date 

Ready for the School Year? PM Pediatric Urgent Care Is Here to Help 

From common illnesses to unexpected injuries, PM Pediatric Urgent Care is here to provide convenient, pediatric-focused care when your family needs it. Whether your child needs testing, treatment, or guidance from a pediatric provider, our team is ready to help you navigate the school year with confidence.