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Common Childhood Illnesses

Kids are still exposed to germs at school every day. Be prepared and learn about the germs and viruses they could come in contact with.

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Strep Throat

Strep throat gets its name from the group A Streptococcus bacteria that causes it. Strep throat is very common, and it's contagious. When a child has strep throat, the bacteria are typically found right in the nose and throat area - which makes strep very easy to pass along by sneezing, coughing, or even hand-to-hand contact. If left untreated, strep throat can lead to serious complications.

Symptoms

  • Red and white patches in the throat
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Tender or swollen glands (lymph nodes) in the neck
  • Red and enlarged tonsils
  • Headache
  • Lower stomach pain
  • Fever
  • General discomfort, uneasiness, or ill feeling
  • Loss of appetite and nausea
  • Rash
  • Symptomatic bad breath

Treatment/Prevention

If you think your child has strep throat, or has a sore throat and may have been exposed to strep, contact his or her healthcare provider. Your child's healthcare provider will conduct a rapid strep test and/or a culture before deciding if antibiotics are necessary.