influenza (flu)
the complete guide to the childcare exclusion period for influenza (flu) in Australia — how long to keep your child home, symptoms to watch for, and when they can return.
exclusion period
until the child is well — there is no set minimum exclusion period
symptoms
- •sudden high fever
- •body aches and muscle pain
- •headache
- •extreme tiredness
- •dry cough
- •sore throat
- •runny or stuffy nose
incubation period
1-4 days (usually 2 days)
contagious period
from 1 day before symptoms appear until about 7 days after becoming sick. children may be contagious for longer.
notes for parents
influenza is different from a common cold — it comes on suddenly and is more severe. annual flu vaccination is recommended for all children aged 6 months and over (free for children 6 months to under 5 years in Australia).
view all exclusion periods
the complete illness-by-illness guide
this guide is for informational purposes only. exclusion periods are based on the NHMRC's Staying Healthy guidelines and were accurate at the time of writing. always consult your child's GP or childcare centre for specific advice. mini mode is not a medical service and is not affiliated with any government department.