RSV (bronchiolitis)
the complete guide to the childcare exclusion period for RSV (bronchiolitis) in Australia — how long to keep your child home, symptoms to watch for, and when they can return.
exclusion period
no mandatory exclusion period — exclude while the child is acutely unwell
symptoms
- •runny nose
- •cough
- •fever
- •wheezing
- •difficulty breathing
- •poor feeding (in infants)
- •irritability
incubation period
2-8 days (usually 4-6 days)
contagious period
usually for 3-8 days from the onset of symptoms, but young infants can shed the virus for up to 4 weeks.
notes for parents
RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) is the most common cause of bronchiolitis in infants. it can be serious in babies under 6 months, premature babies, and children with underlying lung or heart conditions. there is no specific treatment — supportive care only.
view all exclusion periods
the complete illness-by-illness guide
this guide is for informational purposes only. exclusion periods are based on the NHMRC's Staying Healthy guidelines and were accurate at the time of writing. always consult your child's GP or childcare centre for specific advice. mini mode is not a medical service and is not affiliated with any government department.