Be Aware of 7 Common Infectious Diseases in School Children

For school-aged children who engage in activities and play closely with friends at school, it can be difficult to avoid contracting infectious diseases. However, this doesn’t mean it’s impossible. By ensuring your child receives all essential vaccinations and maintaining good hygiene practices, you can help prevent infections or at least lessen their severity if they do occur. To help parents better understand common pediatric infectious diseases, here are 7 illnesses to watch out for:

Be Aware of 7 Common Infectious Diseases in School Children

1. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Infection

RSV is a virus commonly found in children under 2 years of age. It spreads easily in cool, humid weather through droplets from coughing or sneezing, or from contaminated surfaces. Symptoms are similar to a common cold: dry cough, sneezing, clear mucus, nasal congestion, difficulty breathing, and poor appetite. In younger children, the symptoms may become more severe and lead to complications such as pneumonia, bronchiolitis, or even heart failure. If your child has an unusually high fever, labored breathing, or wheezing sounds, seek medical attention immediately.

Prevention: Clean toys and utensils regularly and ensure your child washes their hands frequently. Avoid sharing personal items with others.

2. Influenza (Flu)

The flu is a common respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. It spreads via droplets from coughing, sneezing, or talking. Children are particularly vulnerable due to weaker immune systems. Symptoms usually appear within 1–4 days of exposure and include high fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle aches, and appetite loss. Some children may also experience vomiting or diarrhea. If your child has a fever above 39°C (102°F), breathing difficulties, seizures, or other complications, see a doctor immediately.

Prevention: Maintain hygiene by using hand sanitizers or washing with soap. Always wear a mask in public places. Annual flu vaccination is also strongly recommended.

3. Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease

This viral illness commonly spreads during the rainy season. It affects the digestive system and skin. Transmission occurs through contact with saliva, mucus, or contaminated surfaces. Symptoms include fever and blisters on the mouth, tongue, gums, inner cheeks, hands, and feet. Some children may also experience stomach pain and loss of appetite. If symptoms persist even after taking pain relievers, consult a doctor promptly.

Prevention: Ensure good personal hygiene and avoid crowded areas during outbreaks.

4. Herpangina

Caused by the same virus group as hand, foot, and mouth disease, Herpangina results in painful sores in the mouth only. It spreads through nasal mucus or respiratory droplets. Symptoms include oral pain, body aches, fever, and sometimes vomiting. If fever lasts more than 3 days with signs of dehydration and poor appetite, seek medical help.

Prevention: Avoid close contact with infected individuals. Teach your child to avoid contact with saliva, mucus, or unclean surfaces.

5. Invasive Pneumococcal Disease (IPD)

Though lesser known, IPD is a serious bacterial infection particularly dangerous for children under 2. Caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae (Pneumococcus), it affects the respiratory system and can lead to bloodstream infections, meningitis, or severe pneumonia. Symptoms vary but may include irritability, lethargy, and seizures in infants. Without prompt treatment, it can lead to shock or death.

Prevention: Maintain cleanliness, avoid crowded places, and vaccinate children starting at 2 months of age.

6. Norovirus-Induced Diarrhea

Norovirus causes severe diarrhea and vomiting in children. It spreads rapidly through contaminated food, drink, or air. Symptoms include watery diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, fever, and body aches. While not usually life-threatening, it can cause dehydration. Medical attention is necessary if symptoms persist or worsen.

Prevention: Ensure proper hygiene and only eat freshly cooked food. Encourage the use of separate utensils when sharing meals.

7. Chickenpox

Chickenpox is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which also causes shingles. It leads to red rashes and fluid-filled blisters that eventually scab. Children usually experience mild fever and a few blisters, but older children may show more severe symptoms. Transmission occurs through droplets from coughs, sneezes, or contact with blisters.

Prevention: Vaccinate at around 1 year of age and give a booster shot between ages 4–6. Let children rest and stay hydrated during illness. See a doctor if the fever lasts more than 4 days.

If your child exhibits symptoms of any infectious disease, consult a pediatrician at Synphaet Srinakarin Hospital for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Call 02-006-8888 for appointments or more information.