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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.

Lung & Respiratory Infections

Adenovirus

Adenoviruses can infect the lining of the eyes, airways and lungs, intestines, urinary tract, and nervous system. They're common causes of fever, coughs, sore throats, diarrhea, and pinkeye.

Bronchiolitis

Bronchiolitis is a common illness of the respiratory tract caused by an infection that affects tiny airways. The best treatment for most kids with bronchiolitis is time to recover and plenty of fluids.

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.

Croup

Croup often causes kids to have a loud cough that sounds like a seal barking. Most cases of croup are caused by viruses, are mild, and can be treated at home.

Diphtheria

Diphtheria is a bacterial infection that's rare in the United States, where health officials immunize kids against it. But it's still common in developing countries where immunizations aren't given routinely.

Measles

Measles is best known for the skin rash it causes. Although rare, outbreaks can happen. Getting your kids fully vaccinated is the best way to protect them from this disease.

Meningitis

Meningitis is treatable, but can be serious. So it's important to know the symptoms, and get medical care right away if you think that your child has the illness.

Pneumocystis Pneumonia

Pneumocystis pneumonia can affect infants who have AIDS, cancer, or other conditions that affect the immune system.

Pneumonia

Pneumonia is a lung infection that can be caused by different types of germs, most commonly viruses. Read about symptoms and treatment.

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a major cause of respiratory illness in young children. Learn how to recognize the signs and symptoms of this contagious infection.