I’m Self isolating but should my daughter still go to school?

[Claire32]

Hi All,

Hope everyone is keeping well.

I’m sure lots of people are asking the same thing...but sorry I couldn’t find the answer.

I have RA and take Enbrel, methotrexate and prednisone. Currently in a bad flare after having a baby 7 months ago and was due to change meds to Rituximab which I imagine will be postponed now.

I’m going to self isolate for the 12 weeks but my daughter who is 7 attends school which is currently still open. Should I be keeping her at home? Is it a bit pointless self isolating if she is going to be bringing germs home? I’ve kept her off today whilst I decide what to do.

Thanks everyone and take care xxx

[Lolabridge]

That's a very hard decision for you whilst schools remain open.

As an ex-teacher I would always recommend keeping a child in school if at all possible.

You could take the precaution of getting her to wash her hands thoroughly when she gets home and wash her clothing each day (!) if you do decide to send her.

[AgedCrone]

No...you don’t have Covid19. People only need to isolate if they have symptoms .For now schools are remaining open ...If your daughter shows any symptoms..... You would obviously keep her away from school...& then you should isolate for 14 days to ensure it hasn’t been past on..but now neither of you need to be isolated.

But I would have a word with your health visitor when you see her,

Obviously keep up the hand washing, & don’t go to parties etc, but I’m sure a walk in the park with your new baby & your daughter would be good for you

[suemh2 in reply to AgedCrone]

The advice to people on medication that suppresses the immune system is to self isolate. I have Lupus plus other AI conditions and am on Methotrexate. I've been advised to stay at home, from the Rheumatology specialist. It's not just about having the virus, its about being vulnerable to infection and being less able to fight a virus. Anyone in doubt should check government guidance and that being given by Specialists.

[AgedCrone in reply to suemh2]

Yes I do understand - I have had an AI disease for over 20 years

.

Every person with an autoimmune disease has different priorities ....unfortunately there is no one size fits all solution...we all have to decide personally what action we need to take

Neither the government nor the medical profession can issue one set of regulations that will suit everybody.

People who are working have to talk to their employer and come to some mutually agreeable solution.

Hopefully, none of us will ever see a situation like this in our lives again.