Kids are one of the most notorious spreaders of illnesses. Their hands are everywhere, and there’s a good chance they didn’t wash their hands after coming in contact with something dirty. Several common childhood illnesses could make your child sick. The following five are just some of them.
  • Chickenpoxchildhood illnesses
Chickenpox is extremely common. It usually occurs during childhood, causing an itchy, blister-like rash on the skin. It is every kid's worst nightmare. To avoid this disease, do not touch anyone who has chickenpox. Make sure you keep your hands and your house free of infectious germs. Disinfect surfaces and wash your hands thoroughly. There is a vaccine for chickenpox that is recommended for children around the age of 12-15 months.
  • Respiratory Syncytial Virus
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is an infection of the airways. If you have a child under two years of age, a child with a weak immune system, or a heart or lung disease, watch out. RSV can inflame the lungs and cause pneumonia. Look for symptoms such as irritability and breathing problems in babies and very young children, as well as symptoms similar to those of the common cold. If needed, the drug Synagis, also known as palivizumab, can be used to prevent this disease in infants.
  • Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease 
Hand, foot, and mouth disease generally occurs in children under five years of age. It is transmitted through saliva and blisters. Look for symptoms such as fever, sore throat, and a weak appetite. This virus usually goes away in seven to ten days without treatment.
  • Scarlet Fever 
Scarlet fever is a bacterial infection caused by Group A strep. The disease was once fatal but is now easily treatable thanks to modern-day medicine. Symptoms of scarlet fever are a sore throat and a scarlet-colored rash around the face and neck. The rash could potentially spread to other areas of the body.If your child is suffering from the above symptoms, call a doctor immediately. The doctor will tell you which antibiotics to put your child on. The treatment will help the child recover completely from this infection. 
  • Fifth Disease
Fifth disease is an infection that commonly occurs in children who are five to fifteen years old. Symptoms include swollen joints, a low fever, and a runny nose. A rash will appear soon after.By the time the rash occurs, the infection is no longer contagious. It should take one to three weeks for the rash to disappear and your child to recover. In the meantime, a doctor can recommend treatment to ease the symptoms. Keeping your children healthy can sometimes feel like shoveling snow while it’s still snowing. Still, with a bit of knowledge, you can be prepared to help fend off such childhood illnesses and help to lessen the symptoms when one inevitably makes it past your defenses.  New Beginnings Pediatrics offers same day sick visits if your child is feeling under the weather. Call (540) 739-3623.