CMO urges parents to keep children out of school if they have flu-like symptoms 

The CMO said: "As schools and childcare facilities re-open after the Christmas break, I am urging parents to be vigilant for symptoms of respiratory viruses in children." Picture: Gareth Chaney/ Collins Photos

Ahead of the reopening of schools and creches after Christmas, and given the significant pressure on healthcare currently, parents are urged to keep their children home when they are sick.  

Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Professor Breda Smyth is asking parents to be vigilant for symptoms of respiratory illness and to keep their children home if they are sick or displaying new symptoms of illness.