SCOTCH PLAINS-FANWOOD PUBLIC SCHOOLS
DEPARTMENT OF SPECIAL SERVICES
667 Westfield Road
Scotch Plains, New Jersey 07076
908-889-0100
Fax: 908-889-1812
DIRECTOR OF SPECIAL SERVICES
Linda Edwards
SUPERVISOR OF EDUCATION
Diane Peneno
RETURN TO SCHOOL NOTE FOR INFLUENZA (FLU) LIKE ILLNESS
__________________________Gr.____ was sent home from school on _________with a fever of _____.
One of the best ways to determine the difference between the common cold and influenza is the presence
of a fever. Along with fever, symptoms of influenza include sore throat, headache, cough, nasal
congestion, muscle aches, general fatigue and weakness. Because of the highly contagious nature of
influenza (flu), medical protocol calls for students to stay at home until they are fever-free (<100 degree F
temperature) for 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication such as acetaminophen (Tylenol)
and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin). Intestinal symptoms are generally not indicative of the flu, but if a fever is
present, the student should also remain at home.
Many multi symptoms cold medications contain fever-reducing ingredients, so please read the label
carefully before giving the medication. Consult your health care professional regarding age appropriate
dosing.
Parents of students who attend Scotch Plains-Fanwood schools are asked that in the event that their son or
daughter will need to remain home from school due to influenza (flu) like illness, this form be completed
and brought to the school nurse upon the student’s return.
Sincerely,
Linda Edwards
Director of Special Services
Parent Section:
My child has been fever free for 24 hours without the use of any medication that has fever-reducing ingredients.
1. Last documented temperature at home over 100 degrees F. __________________________________
Date
2. Last dose of medication with fever reducing ingredients.
Time
__________________________________
Date
Time
Signature of Parent/Guardian: ____________________________________________________________
School Nurse Section:
Student may return to school on: __________________________________
Student may not return to school due to: ____________________________________________________
Signature of School Nurse: _______________________________________