The HSE has today (2 September 2020) issued further advice in respect of school students returning to school, including those with Cystic Fibrosis.

Click here to view the latest advice.

This advice is consistent with recent statements from the HSE and the Department of Education and Skills and Crumlin Hospital that are featured in the news section of the CFI website.

A summary of the advice that specifically relates to cystic fibrosis is below:

Children with health conditions

Children with underlying health conditions may be vulnerable to any infection.

But it appears the risk of severe illness from coronavirus is low, even if your child has:

• an underlying health condition
• special healthcare needs

Returning to school

Child-to-child transmission of coronavirus in schools is not common. It is not the primary cause of coronavirus infection in children. Particularly in preschool and primary schools.

Schools are introducing measures to reduce the risk of coronavirus being transmitted.

These include:

• hand hygiene
• cleaning measures
• reduced mixing between children
• fewer objects going in and out of school

There is no reason a child with any of the following health conditions cannot return to school:

• asthma
• cystic fibrosis
• diabetes
• inflammatory bowel disease
• neurodisability

Only children who have recently had a transplant or have severe immunodeficiency from very recent cancer treatment may need to stay away from school. Talk with their specialist. They will advise if your child needs to take any extra precautions. Contact the specialist and GP straight away if they are diagnosed with coronavirus.

Parents or family members at high-risk should socially distance from other adults. For example, at school pick up times.

Other reasons a child should not attend school

All children should attend school as normal unless they:

• have a temperature of 38 degrees Celsius or more
• have other common symptoms of coronavirus - a new cough, loss or changed sense of taste or smell, or shortness of breath
• have been in close contact with someone who has coronavirus
• live with someone who is unwell and may have coronavirus

If you are worried about their health, phone your GP.

If your child has a health condition

If your child has a health condition they and everyone in the family should still:

• be extra careful in watching out for symptoms
• strictly follow the advice on good hygiene and hand washing

Your child should try and keep up their normal activities and attend school. This is good for their overall wellbeing.

If you do have concerns about your child's health condition, ask their specialist team for advice.