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Health & Safety
Support Network
INFECTION CONTROL MANAGEMENT
Preventative health practices and polices can minimize the number of illnesses which may occur in child care group settings.
In order for the policies to be effective, the caregiver will need to understand how illnesses are passed and why children may get more illnesses than adults. The following is a brief overview.
HOW ARE GERMS SPREAD?
Illnesses are caused by germs, which are transmitted from one person to another through:
- Air
- Urine and Stool
- Saliva
- Skin
- Drainage, such as nasal mucus or pus from open sores
- Surfaces, Toys.
WHY DO CHILDREN GET Ill?
- The younger the children the more immature their immune system.
- Depending on the age of the children, their immunization series may not yet be completed.
- More germs are passed in group settings.
WHAT CAN I DO?
- Wash your hands and have children wash their hands properly and frequently.
- Use effective cleaning, sanitation and disinfection practices.
- Require up-to-date immunizations of all children and staff.
- Exclude ill children and staff.
- Report illnesses to families and health agencies when applicable.
- Be prepared.
To help providers to be prepared, the Hennepin County Community Health Department Epidemiology and Environmental Health has developed a resource manual Infectious Diseases in Childcare Settings and Schools. This resource manual was developed specifically for providers in center-based child care, caregivers in family-based child care, school health staff, school-age after-school program staff, and for parents and/or guardians. This manual gives specific directives on how to prevent and respond to illnesses and is web accessible.
ADDITIONAL TOOLS AND RESOURCES
Sanitize Safely and Effectively: Bleach and Alternatives in Child Care Programs [PDF]
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To connect to your local Resource and Referral agency: (888) 291-9811 Find us on Minnesota Child Care Resource & Referral Network Email: info@mnchildcare.org © 2010 Minnesota Child Care Resource & Referral Network
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