Can my child go to school after vomiting once?

My mother always says to keep the child home for at least 24 hours after vomiting to let the stomach rest. The doctor also advised me that minor bugs can spread easily in school. It is best to keep him home today, give him light ORS, and observe.

I completely understand the anxiety of deciding whether to send them to school or take a day off work. I used to stress so much about this. But for peace of mind, keep them home today. It's much safer than worrying all day about a call from the school nurse.

My daughter literally had this last Tuesday. She threw up once in the morning, seemed okay, but by afternoon she had a fever and diarrhea. It's usually a stomach virus that takes a day to show full symptoms. Better to keep your child home today.

Don't just assume it was a 'one-time thing' due to gas or overeating. Vomiting can be the start of a viral infection, food poisoning, or heat stroke. Keep the child home, monitor their temperature, and if they vomit again or show lethargy, take them to a pediatrician.

Never send a child to school immediately after vomiting. Give it at least 12 to 24 hours. Keep them on a bland diet like curd-rice or toast and plenty of water. If they don't vomit again and stay active, you can safely send them the next day.