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How are common childhood illnesses spread?

Hand, foot and mouth disease, fifth disease and chickenpox are spread by droplets from sneezing and coughing by an infected child. Head lice are most often spread by direct person-to-person contact. Ringworm is spread by direct contact with an infected person or pet, or it can be picked up from damp floors and showers, especially in communal areas such as gymnasia and swimming pools. Gastroenteritis may be passed on by eating and drinking contaminated food and water, or through the fecal-oral route from another person carrying the infection.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What are some common childhood illnesses?

Common childhood illnesses include chickenpox, conjunctivitis; head lice; middle ear infections; various rashes; hand, foot and mouth disease; asthma; croup; ringworm; gastroenteritis; food allergies; common cold; and flu.

What are the symptoms of common childhood illnesses?

There are many different symptoms associated with common childhood illnesses. Some of the more typical and commonly observed symptoms may include coughing, a sore throat, fever, headache, nausea and diarrhea.

What causes common childhood illnesses?

Viral and bacterial infections are the more common cause of illnesses in children, but some conditions are also fungal or parasitic infections.

How are common childhood illness treated?

The underlying cause of an illness, severity of symptoms and the age of a child will determine the appropriate treatment for an illness. Many illnesses listed here are generally mild, are likely to resolve on their own and may be well-managed with …

Will common childhood illnesses clear on their own?

Many childhood illnesses, such as common cold, sore throat, gastroenteritis, croup and middle ear infections are generally mild and are likely to resolve on their own.

What can be done at home to treat common childhood illnesses?

Simple home care steps for common childhood illnesses may include using over-the-counter pain relief medication, ensuring your child remains hydrated and well-rested, and monitoring their temperature.

Are common childhood illnesses contagious?

Some childhood illnesses are very contagious. These include: chickenpox; infective conjunctivitis; head lice; fifth disease; hand, foot and mouth disease; ringworm; and gastroenteritis. It is best to keep your child at home to avoid the spread of …

Can common childhood illnesses be prevented?

You can help lower the chance of children contracting a contagious infection by teaching them to wash their hands regularly, especially after going to the toilet, before eating and drinking, after blowing their nose and after touching a pet. By …

Are common childhood illnesses serious?

Most of the common childhood illnesses resolve with simple home care and do not require medical intervention. Some of the more serious symptoms that may be associated with common childhood illnesses may include: a high fever that lasts more than 48 …

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About this article

Author: Lauren Donley BSc (Hons)
First answered: 18 Sep 2014
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 4.1 out of 5
Votes: 153 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Croup

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