If a pupil or student is ill or has symptoms, they must stay at home
Despite the gradual lifting of coronavirus restrictions, the number of coronavirus infections remains high. We want to remind you that if a pupil or student is ill or has symptoms, they must stay at home. Exposed but asymptomatic pupils or students who have not tested positive for the coronavirus can attend school but must avoid unnecessary contact with others. Espoo’s schools no longer inform guardians of individual exposures.
Pupils and students must be healthy when attending school
We would like to remind you that pupils and students must be healthy when attending school. A pupil or student who has symptoms of a common cold (e.g. a runny nose, congestion or fever) or other symptoms must stay at home and rest. According to the instructions of the City of Espoo, a person who has fallen ill should avoid contact with people outside their home for at least five days from the onset of symptoms until they have been fever-free and the other symptoms have clearly eased for at least two days. These guidelines apply to both vaccinated and unvaccinated children and young people.
As with other viral infections, the infectiousness of the coronavirus (Covid-19) decreases rapidly after the symptoms have started. Sneezing and coughing may continue for a long period after a recent respiratory tract infection. In these cases, the pupil or student can return to school when they are clearly improving and their symptoms are subsiding.
Exposed but asymptomatic pupils and students who have not tested positive for the coronavirus can attend school. Pupils and students can take a coronavirus test at home. They must avoid unnecessary contact with others, such as recreational activities and visiting friends, until five days have passed since the exposure.
We will update these instructions if needed. You can always find up-to-date instructions on sickness absences on our website.
Guardians no longer informed of individual coronavirus exposures
Espoo’s schools will no longer inform guardians of individual coronavirus exposures. Guardians may still inform schools if their child has been infected. If it appears that there is a large number of infections in one group or class, the principal will inform guardians of the matter.
Coronavirus restrictions will also be gradually lifted in schools. For example, teaching groups can be combined and mealtimes no longer have to be staggered. Excursions and visits will be organised in compliance with health and safety guidelines. Schools will continue to follow good hygiene practices.