Infection control in childcare and early learning

Why childcare is different

Young children touch everything, put toys in their mouths and are still learning hygiene. Infections such as gastro, hand, foot and mouth disease, colds and conjunctivitis spread quickly in early learning services.

Key guidance

The National Quality Standard includes children's health and safety, and the NHMRC publication Staying healthy: Preventing infectious diseases in early childhood education and care services is the main practical reference for services in Australia. Your service's policies will be based on these.

Everyday practices

• Wash hands with soap and water after nappy changes, toileting, wiping noses and before food preparation.
• Use gloves for nappy changes and body fluids, and clean the change mat after every use.
• Clean toys that have been mouthed before other children use them.
• Teach children to wash their hands and cough into their elbow.
• Follow exclusion periods for unwell children and staff.

Outbreaks

Record illness in your service's register, tell your nominated supervisor about clusters and follow notification requirements for conditions such as gastroenteritis.