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CHICKENPOX

A preventable childhood illness that can also cause shingles in adulthood. SYMPTOMS: A mild headache, fever and general malaise are present before a rash begins. Itchy blisters soon develop that dry up after a few days to form scabs. The spots can also appear in the mouth, making it difficult to eat. Sometimes there’ll be a cough. HOW SERIOUS? Treat at home, unless your child has reduced immunity, or if coughing, seizures, drowsiness or rapid breathing occur. Keep your child away from pregnant women, as this condition is highly contagious. TREATMENT: Liquid paracetamol helps to reduce fever, while calamine lotion helps to relieve the itch. Don’t (ever) give your child aspirin. You can also bathe your child in warm water containing a handful of bicarbonate of soda or a splash of white vinegar.

Keep your child’s fingernails short to avoid infection and try to control the scratching. Keep your child isolated for a week to 10 days to recover, as adults who have not had the disease, and therefore didn’t develop immunity in childhood, are susceptible.

CONJUNCTIVITIS

An inflammation of the conjunctiva (the covering of the eyeball and inside of the eyelid), also called pink eye. SYMPTOMS: Whites of the eye and the inside of the eyelids may become red. The eye feels irritated or itchy and might water a lot. In bacterial conjunctivitis, sticky yellow pus forms in the corner of the eye or lashes at times making it hard for the child to open her eyes in the morning. HOW SERIOUS? See the doctor to ascertain the cause of

the infection. TREATMENT: Remove the pus as often as possible with a piece of cotton wool dipped in cooled boiled water. Apply drops if prescribed and wash your hands thoroughly. Try to keep your child from rubbing her eyes and encourage her to wash her hands regularly to avoid spreading it.

CROUP

Breathing difficulty accompanied by a “barking” cough that is caused by swelling below the vocal cords. SYMPTOMS: Usually starts with cold symptoms and develops into a persistent, barking cough, noisy breathing and a hoarse voice. If the symptoms worsen into fast or difficult breathing, or if the tongue or lips become blue, go see a doctor as soon as possible. HOW SERIOUS? Go to the doctor for the appropriate medication. TREATMENT: Nebulised adrenalin, but recurrent or spasmodic croup will require a home action plan for future occurrences.