Parents know that children spread germs like wildfire. The school year often brings a wide array of illnesses. These are the most common ones your little one might bring home this fall:
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV): This virus can cause a runny nose, cough, breathing troubles and fever. It is common in infants and young children. Unfortunately, it can be especially dangerous for babies. Vaccines are now available for this illness. “It’s an antibody that gives the protection that lasts through the RSV season and has reduced hospitalization by 93 percent,” Irma Ortiz-Arroyo, MD, a WashU Medicine pediatrician at South County Pediatrics says.
Influenza (the flu): Many people are familiar with the flu. This virus can lead to a high fever, cough, body aches, fatigue and vomiting. Flu season generally occurs between the months of October and April.
Streptococcal pharyngitis (strep throat): Strep throat is an illness caused by group A streptococcus bacteria. It can be treated with antibiotics, unlike viral infections. Symptoms include a very sore throat, fever and white spots appearing on the back of the throat.
Norovirus (“stomach flu”): What many people call the stomach flu is not really a type of flu at all; instead, this is a highly contagious infection caused by norovirus that leads to vomiting, diarrhea and other gastrointestinal symptoms. Dehydration is the most dangerous part of this illness.
Enterovirus: Enteroviruses can cause a wide range of symptoms. One of the most common sicknesses caused by this virus is hand-foot-and-mouth disease. Hand-foot-and-mouth leads to blisters, sores and fever.
Adenovirus: Adenoviruses can cause cough, fever, sore throat, runny nose, pink eye and other symptoms that often mimic the flu.
Rhinovirus: Rhinovirus causes the common cold. Symptoms are usually not serious and can include a runny nose and mild cough.
How to Protect Your Child
Parents can help protect their children from viral and bacterial infections by staying up to date on vaccines, practicing good hygiene (especially handwashing) and keeping sick kids home to help prevent the spread of illness.
When to Seek Help
- The child is having difficulty breathing
- A high fever (above 105 degrees orally) or a fever lasting longer than three days
- Dehydration sets in
- A rash develops
- Extreme fatigue or if there is difficulty waking the child
WashU Medicine is Here to Help
WashU Medicine pediatricians can help diagnose and manage all these illnesses. To make an appointment at South County Pediatrics, please call 314-849-3320.