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What are the most common infections in children?

Children can be affected by various infections. However, measles and chicken pox are some of the common ones. Measles is a viral infection of the respiratory system and is a very contagious disease that can spread through contact with an infected saliva or mucus. Chicken pox, on the other hand is another type of virus that mostly affects children and is characterised by red, itchy blisters that occur all over the body.    

What are the symptoms of common infections in children?

A classic measles symptom is skin rash. The measles rash is typically red, itchy bumps that can last up to seven days. Other symptoms of measles include fever, sensitivity to light, runny nose, cough, sore throat, muscle ache, red eyes, white spots in the mouth.

A widespread symptom of chickenpox is a rash. However, before the rash is seen, other symptoms such as headache, fever and loss of appetite is seen. Chicken pox rash generally occurs in three stages: developing a rash, bumps filled with fluid that leaks and scabbing of bumps followed by healing. 

What are the causes of common infections in children?

While there are many causes of common infections in children, a few of them include:

• Chicken pox is caused by the varicella-zoster virus. 
• Sharing eating utensils with an infected person can cause chickenpox.
• Drinking from a person’s infected glass, which in turn, increases the risk of common infections in children.
• Most cases occur through coming in contact with an infected person. For example, sneezing, coughing, saliva or blisters. 

How are common infections in children diagnosed?

While diagnosing chickenpox or measles, your doctor will first check for symptoms and examine the rash. Diagnostic tests may also be recommended to confirm the presence of virus.

How are common infections in children treated? 

There is no specific treatment for measles or chickenpox. The virus and symptoms go away on their own within 2-3 weeks. However, to ease symptoms, your doctor may prescribe some medication that helps relieve muscle aches and fever. Besides, vitamin A supplements may also be given. In case of chicken pox treatment, some antihistamine medication or topical ointments may be prescribed to help relieve the itching. If you have measles or chicken pox, getting plenty of rest and fluids is vital. Keep children out of school or day-care to ensure that the virus does not spread to others around.

Apollo Support

At Apollo Clinic, we understand the discomfort your child when he/she is infected with measles or chicken pox. Our highly skilled and experienced paediatricians, doctors and support staff are adept in handling children and provide superior quality care. We are also equipped with the latest technologies, excellent infrastructure and amenities to diagnose and treat viral infections in children.