Common Childhood Infections

Articles In This Section

• Flu Center

  Learn all about protecting your family from the flu and what to do if your child gets flu-like symptoms.

• Can Chronic Ear Infections Cause Long-Term Hearing Loss?

  Find out what the experts have to say.

• Cold Sores

  Cold sores are small and painful blisters that appear around the mouth, face, or nose. They're very common and, while uncomfortable, usually go away on their own.

• Diarrhea

  Most kids battle diarrhea from time to time, so it's important to know what to do to relieve and even prevent it.

• Mononucleosis

  Mononucleosis - or "mono" - is an infection that produces flu-like symptoms, and usually goes away on its own in a few weeks with the help of plenty of fluids and rest.

• Chickenpox

  It's most common in kids under age 12, but anyone can get chickenpox. The good news is that a vaccine can prevent most cases.

• Pinkeye (Conjunctivitis)

  Pinkeye, or conjunctivitis, is the most common eye infection affecting kids. Learn more about pinkeye and how to prevent it from spreading.

• Common Cold

  With kids getting up to eight colds a year, this contagious viral infection is the most common infectious disease in the United States and the top reason kids visit the doctor and miss school.

• Urinary Tract Infections

  Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common in kids, but often can be prevented. Early detection and treatment are key.

• Head Lice

  Lice aren't dangerous and they don't spread disease, but they are contagious, annoying, and sometimes hard to get rid of. Learn more about this common childhood problem and how to get rid of those pesky little bugs.

• Middle Ear Infections

  Ear infections are common among kids and, often, painful. Find out what causes them and how they're treated.

• Is It a Cold or the Flu?

  Your child is sent home from school with a sore throat, cough, and high fever - could it be the flu that's been going around? Or is it just a common cold? Find out here!

• Fever and Taking Your Child’s Temperature

  Although it can be frightening when your child's temperature rises, fever itself causes no harm and can actually be a good thing - it's often the body's way of fighting infections.

• Neonatal Infections

  The vast majority of newborns enter the world healthy. But sometimes, infants develop conditions that require medical tests and treatment.