Ill individuals should not attend school. Individuals who have symptoms compatible with COVID‑19 and/or tested positive on a COVID‑19 test (PCR, rapid molecular, or rapid antigen) should self-isolate immediately and follow isolation guidance provided via the provincial school and child care screening tool, and as outlined in the COVID‑19 integrated testing & case, contact and outbreak management interim guidance: Omicron surge.

If the individual with symptoms is not tested, they are presumed to have COVID‑19 and should self-isolate (including from household members if possible). Whether they are tested or not, the period of self-isolation should start from the date of symptom on-set (day 0) if symptoms began before a positive test result.

Individuals who have traveled out of the country are required to follow federal guidelines and law upon their return.

Note that individuals do not need to provide a medical note or proof of negative result to return to school.

If an ill individual does not have COVID-19

For an ill individual who has a known alternative diagnosis provided by a health care professional, return to school can occur if they do not have a fever and their symptoms have been improving for at least 24 hours or 48 hours if vomiting or diarrhea. Individuals will still need to use the COVID‑19 school and child care screening tool, or a screening tool designated by the local public health unit, daily before attending school and may also be required to provide confirmation of self-screening prior to or upon arrival to school.