kidshealth library

health & safety topics

Your child's health and safety is our top priority. Please search our resource library for information on health, nutrition, fitness, injury prevention and other important topics.

search by topic

or search alphabetical order

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

clear filters

Common Childhood Infections

A to Z: Otitis Media (Ear Infection)

Learn more about otitis media, an infection of the middle ear.

Bronchitis

Bronchitis is an inflammation of the lining of the bronchial tubes. When a person has bronchitis, it may be harder for air to pass in and out of the lungs.

Chickenpox

Chickenpox used to be common in kids, causing a very itchy red rash all over the body. But the good news is that a vaccine can prevent most cases.

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.

Colds

Colds are the most common infectious disease in the United States - and the top reason kids visit the doctor and miss school.

Diarrhea

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

Enterovirus Infections

Enteroviruses are a common cause of infection in people of all ages, with symptoms that can range from mild to serious.

Fever (High Temperature) In Kids

Fevers happen when the body's internal "thermostat" raises the body temperature above normal. This is often the body's way of fighting infections.

Germs: Bacteria, Viruses, Fungi, and Protozoa

Germs are the microscopic bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa that can cause disease.

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.