Common Infections in School Going Children

Many parents often lament increased instances of their child falling ill especially from the time they started going to school. While there are no fool-proof strategies for preventing a school-going child from being exposed to any kind of contagious illness, it is certainly worthwhile for the parents to be informed about the challenges they can handle effectively.

- Dr. Krishna Mahathi

Respiratory infections 

The most common contagious challenge is cold and sore throat. Even amidst the best of settings, children can be expected to have a cold eight to 12 times a year. The best defence for the children is to be up-to-date with the recommended immunization schedules.

If the child is suffering from cough, runny nose, or sore throat along with fever, she should be excused from attending the school and made to return only after the fever has subsided completely without the need for any further medications. Additionally, children should be encouraged to cover their nose and mouth with a tissue or the crook of their elbow while coughing or sneezing.

Gastrointestinal infections 

Typically, children may suffer from diarrheal episodes once or twice a year. But diarrhoea can herald the onset of serious conditions like typhoid, leptospirosis and amoebiasis children. Therefore it’s better for parents to keep their children at home. Also, an illness that caused vomiting twice or more the previous day should be attended to before sending the child to school.

It goes without saying that preparation and serving of food under hygienic conditions is imperative to preventing gastrointestinal infections in children.

Skin discomfort 

It is important to note that children with certain skin conditions need to stay away from school until the condition clears up.