Unfortunately, your son can spread those germs for the entire duration of his cold, which can last for up to two weeks. Of course, you can’t quarantine him for that long -- it would drive him (and you!) crazy. The more reasonable, expert-recommended tactic: Keep him home from school and away from other kids when he’s coughing and sneezing consistently. Colds are at their most contagious when children feel crummiest, usually on the second through fifth days. So, remember to wash your own hands often during that time.
As your son recovers and his body fights off the virus, he’s less likely to pass that virus on to other kids. So one or two days after he starts feeling better and his symptoms subside to a mild cough and runny nose, you can start rescheduling those playdates. Just make sure that you remind him not to share snacks or drinks, and to always cough and sneeze into his elbow. The best way to teach him that, of course, is through example.
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