It is not uncommon for children to contract illnesses while at school because of close proximity to their peers. The most common illnesses children are prone to include flu and the common cold, strep throat, pink eye and head lice.
According to Murray Hewlett, chief executive officer of Affinity Health, this close proximity increases the chances of children sharing germs.
He encourages parents to have their children vaccinated to minimise the risk of contracting diseases, as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
“To reduce the risk of contracting the flu and common cold, ensure your child gets a flu vaccine and practices good hygiene, such as washing their hands frequently and covering their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing,” said Hewlett.
“To prevent strep throat, teach your children to cover their mouths with an elbow or tissue when they cough or sneeze and not to share drinking cups or eating utensils with their classmates.
“Antibiotics are usually required to treat strep throat.”
Pink Eye, also known as conjunctivitis, is an infection of the eye and is characterised by redness, itching and discharge.
“Many of the bacteria and viruses that cause colds and other infections, such as ear infections, sinus infections and a sore throat, can cause infectious pinkeye, namely the kind that spreads to others.
“Although generally not serious, if your child shows signs of pinkeye, it is important to see a doctor. Some kinds of pinkeye go away on their own, but others need treatment.”
Head lice are tiny insects that live on the scalp and cause itching and sores. They are transmitted through direct head-to-head contact or by sharing hats, brushes or other personal items. Symptoms take four to six weeks to manifest, and are usually indicated by itching behind the ears or at the back of the neck.
“One of the best – and proven – ways of stopping the spread of childhood diseases is washing hands frequently,” concluded Hewlett.
