IMPETIGO is a bacterial skin infection that develops red sores that can break open, ooze fluid then form a yellow-brown crust.  They may develop anywhere on the body but usually form around the mouth and nose.  Student may return to school 24 hours after topical antibiotics have been started. 

MENINGITIS is an infection of the coverings around the brain and spinal cord.  There are two main kinds, bacterial and viral.  Student may return to school when fever free(<100 degrees Fahrenheit) for 24 hours and with doctor OK. 

MONONUCLEOSISalso called "mono" is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus(EPA).  It can leave you feeling tired and weak for weeks or months.  Mono will go away on it's own, but rest and good self-care will help you feel better. Student may return to school when fever free(<100 degrees Fahrenheit).

PINK EYE is redness and swelling of the white part of the eye and the inside of the eyelid.  It is usually not serious and goes away in 7-10 days without medical treatment.  Poor hand washing is the main cause of the spread of pink eye.  Students may be sent home from school, especially if bacterial conjunctivitis is suspected.  Student may stay in school if not bacterial and they are mature enough to keep their hands away from their eyes and use good hand washing techniques.  If an antibiotic has been prescribed, student may return to school 24 hours after antibiotic has been started.   

POISONING The first step is to call the local Poison Center for help at 1-800-222-1222.  Syrup of ipecac should no longer be used routinely and should not be kept in the home.  64% of poisonings are unintentional. 

RINGWORM is caused by a fungus.  It looks like a small round patch of red skin, either blistery or dry and scaly, usually in the shape of a ring.  It is very contagious and spreads through skin-to-skin contact and when things like towels, hairbrushes, and sports equipment are shared.  Student may return to school 24 hours after the start of treatment. 

SCARLET FEVERis a term used for strep throat with a rash.  It is a rough, red rash that feels like sandpaper and usually starts on the chest and abdomen.  It is accompanied by a fever and sore-throat and sometimes, bright red spots on the tongue.  Student may return to school 24 hours after antibiotics are started and fever free(<100 degrees Fahrenheit). 

STREP THROATis a bacterial infection of the tissue at the back of the throat and tonsils.  This causes a sudden, severe sore-throat accompanied by a fever >101, pain and difficulty swallowing and swollen lymph nodes in the neck.  Strep throat does not occur with cold symptoms.  Student may return to school 24 hours after antibiotics are started and fever free(<100 degrees Fahrenheit).

STYE is an infection that causes a tender red lump on the eyelid.  Usually caused by a bacterial infection in a hair follicle.  Apply warm wet compresses to the area 3-6 times a day.  Student may stay in school.    

Check out these INSTRUCTION SHEETS on some common childhood emergencies, from Kids Health.