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Common Childhood Illnesses

Cases of colds, viruses, and gastrointestinal illness (vomiting, stomach ache, and diarrhea) are common childhood illnesses.  Bacterial infections such as conjunctivitis (pink eye), strep throat, sinus or ear infections and pneumonia are occasionally reported as well.  This chart offers practical guidelines for recognizing the differences between some illnesses.  General healthcare information should not be used as a substitute or in place of contacting your child’s healthcare provider.

Symptoms Common Cold Strep Throat Influenza
Fever Low grade fever of no fever Fever common from bacterial infection Usually very HIGH fever of 102-104 lasting 3-4 days or more
Headache Often Often Usually occurs and an be severe

General body aches & pains

Rare or slight Rare Usually occurs and can be severe
Cough Often Not common Usually occurs
Stuffy Nose Very common Rare Sometimes
Fatigue & weakness Mild Mild Extreme & can last two weeks
Diarrhea & vomiting No No Occasionally in children
Loss of appetite Rare or mild Often due to pain from swallowing Usually due to multiple symptoms
Will antibiotics help? No Yes, always prescribed and should be completely finished No

 

It is best to consult with your pediatrician if any of the following applies:

  • Fever over 101.5
  • Onset of a sore throat is rapid, severe and persists for more than 2 days
  • A rash that looks like sand paper or “goose bumps” with a sore throat
  • Persistent ear pain with fever
  • Pus or greenish-yellow discharge from the nasal sinuses or in the back of the throat
  • Thick yellowish-white drainage from the eyes  (can prevent the eyes from opening)
  • Persistent loss of appetite with influenza symptoms
  • Persistent  severe cough with pain in the chest area and difficult breathing

Please refer to the West Irondequoit Central School District Minimum School Exclusion Policy.  Children who have been ill with a fever should remain at home for 24 hours after the fever has subsided.  Letters reporting multiple illnesses in your child's classroom may at times be sent home.  A general informational letter is sent home for illnesses that are reportable to the Monroe County Health Department.

Please feel free to contact your school Health Office with any questions.