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Common childhood diseases
Reviewed by Dr John Pillinger, GP
Infectious period
The disease is especially contagious during the first week, while the child still has a trace of a cold. The infectiousness does, however, wear off in the following five to seven weeks. It is important to keep the child away from other children under the age of one year.
'Fifth' disease (erythema infectiosum)
Treatment
Incubation period
Infectious period
Complications
Three-day-fever (roseola infantum)
Treatment
Incubation period
Infectiousness
Hand, foot and mouth disease
Treatment
Incubation period
Infectious period
Scarlet fever
Treatment
Incubation period
Infectiousness
It cannot be treated, but disappears by itself. It is usually quite a mild illness.
Two weeks between being exposed to the infection and showing symptoms.
Once the rash appears, the disease is no longer infectious.
Pregnant women should avoid being in contact with children with fifth disease as it may cause a miscarriage. Pregnant women with a child who contracts fifth disease should contact their doctor. The incubation period is a couple of weeks.
Undress the child to ensure they aren't too warm. Give the child fever reducing medication (such as paracetamol) to control their temperature and plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.
Between 10 to 15 days from being exposed to the infection and showing symptoms.
It is contagious during the whole period of the disease and up to two to three days after. Avoid contact with other children under three years of age during the whole period.
As with most diseases causing a fever, it is important to make sure the child gets plenty to drink. If the ulcers in their mouth are severe it may help to mash up the child's food.
Two to three days between being exposed to the infection and showing symptoms.
The disease is contagious as long as blisters or spots are still present.
Antibiotics are usually given for this disease. It is important to keep the child at home and avoid contact with other children.
Three to eight days between being exposed to the infection and showing symptoms.
Scarlet fever is contagious for the first few days, but after three days of antibiotics the risk is almost gone.
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