CM CLUB coldsores should we have a policy?

[OFSTEDoutstanding]

I know this probably sounds really silly but should we have a policy regarding coldsores? Mindee 18months has arrived this morning with one and mum has asked me to apply cream which I dont mind doing. Did I do wrong accepting mindee this morning?

I've never heard of needing one for this. They aren't catching as such are they - only if you already carry the herpes virus in your body and then its direct contact from mouth to mouth. You shouldn't let the mindee share a cup etc with anyone else but hten you shouldn't do that anyway so I can't see a problem.

No policy. Only thing I MAY have done is get a form signed for the cream, depending on what the cream is. Can't see the need for a policy though.

I thought it was catching tbh. If another child has a cut, then it can be caught, so to speak. If its really bad it turns to impetigo and schools insist that you remain at home until its treated, that it highly contageous.

In answer to your question though, I think maybe its one of those diseaases ou can't really judge black & white iykwim. If its just a coldsore, then I think as long as you are aware and it is being treated, fine, but if it turns nasty and into impetigo, then the child needs to stay away.

Impetigo is not caused bu the herpes virus it is bacterial. I think following usual hygeine prcoedures will be fine for a cold sore.

Hi looneytune, I did get form signed for cream and will get it signed again at collection time, Thanks everyone for your responses I really was unsure especially as I have never come across it before

www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk/articles/article.aspx?articleId=194

"They are highly contagious"
"Wash your hands after touching the sore (or your lips) and don't put your fingers near your eyes.

Avoid direct contact with anyone who has an active sore. People with cold sores should be particularly careful around newborn babies, or people with a low immune system such as those with AIDS or who have been undergoing chemotherapy.

Avoid sharing cups, towels, lipsticks or other objects with people who have an active cold sore"

HPA says no exclusion required. avoid kissing.

The main problem with this age group is that everything goes in their mouth and its going to be rather difficult to prevent spread to other mindees by ensuring they don't touch the same toys or having direct contact with each other.