Staying Healthy in Child Care - National Health and Medical ...

Runny noses (with green or yellow discharge)
Description
When germs that cause colds (cold viruses) first infect the nose and sinuses, the nose
makes clear mucus. This helps wash the germs from the nose and sinuses. After two
or three days, the body’s immune cells fight back, changing the mucus to a white or
yellow colour 47 . As the bacteria that live in the nose grow back, they may also be
found in the mucus, which changes to a greenish colour. This is normal and does not
mean the child needs antibiotics.
Incubation period
2-3 days.
Infectious period
Nil.
Exclusion period
Nil.
Responsibilities of child care providers/staff
Report the discharge to the director.
If the child is unwell, advise the parent that the child should stay at home until they
are feeling better (this is out of concern and consideration of the child – it is not an
infection control issue for the centre).
Responsibilities of parents
If the child is unwell, advise the parent the child should stay at home until they are
feeling better (this is out of concern and consideration of the child – not an infection
control issue for the centre).
Controlling the spread of infection
Teach children to cover their mouth when sneezing or coughing and to wash their
hands after blowing their noses.
Dispose of tissues soiled with nose and throat discharges.
Ensure staff wash hands after contact with soiled tissues or contact with nose and
throat discharges.
Treatment
No specific treatment. Antibiotics are not needed to treat a runny nose.
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Draft for Public Consultation