Infections happen when tiny organisms such as viruses, bacteria, parasites, or fungi enter our body. Bacteria are found almost everywhere in our surroundings, but only 50 types can infect humans out of billions.
Look up specific diseases and conditions.
View tips on staying healthy and reducing your risk of catching and spreading infections.
Common childhood illnesses
This is intended as a general guide. Consult a health care provider for diagnosis and recommendations for your child.
Help your child prevent the spread of illness
- Keep children home when they are ill.
- Supervise children when cleaning their hands with soap and water or hand sanitizer.
- Make sure children always clean their hands after:
- Using the toilet.
- Touching pets.
- Playing outdoors.
- Coming home from school, daycare, or activities.
- Coughing, sneezing, blowing, or wiping their nose.
- Increase the cleaning of shared surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, and bathroom taps when someone in the house is ill.
- Ensure that your child’s vaccinations are up to date. Follow the vaccine schedule as closely as possible. Please notify KFL&A Public Health when your child receives an immunization to keep our copy of their record current.