Back to School, Back to Bugs!

Backpacks are packed, school supplies are ready, and the first day of school is right around the corner! But with kids back in classrooms, sports, and activities comes something parents don’t always look forward to: germs.

From toddlers to teens, here are a few common illnesses and infections parents should keep on their radar this school year!

Lice

Lice spread easily through close head-to-head contact, especially among younger children. Watch for persistent itching, irritation, or tiny eggs (nits) attached to the hair.

Tip: Remind kids not to share hats, brushes, combs, or other personal items.

Hand, Foot & Mouth Disease

Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) is especially common in young children but can affect older kids, too. Symptoms may include fever, sore throat, and small spots or blisters on the hands, feet, or in and around the mouth.

Tip: Frequent handwashing and avoiding close contact when sick can help slow the spread.

Impetigo

This contagious bacterial skin infection can cause red sores that may burst and develop a honey-colored crust. It can spread through skin-to-skin contact or shared items like towels and clothing.

Tip: Keep cuts and scrapes clean and covered, and encourage good hand hygiene.

Warts

Warts are small skin growths caused by certain types of HPV. They can spread through direct contact or by touching contaminated surfaces.

Tip: Encourage kids not to pick at warts and to avoid sharing personal items.

Cellulitis

Cellulitis is a bacterial skin infection that can develop when bacteria enter through a cut, scrape, insect bite, or other break in the skin. Redness, swelling, warmth, and tenderness are common signs.

Tip: Keep cuts and scrapes clean and watch for signs of infection.

Keep the School-Year Germs Away

You can’t avoid every classroom cough or playground scrape, but a few simple habits can make a big difference:

• Wash hands often with soap and water.
• Cover coughs and sneezes.
• Don’t share drinks, utensils, or personal items.
• Keep cuts and scrapes clean and covered.
• Keep kids home when they’re sick and follow school guidelines for returning.

Tip: If your child comes home with an unexpected rash, fever, infection, or other concerning symptoms, your pediatrician or pediatric urgent care team can help you determine what to do next – save your spot online! 

Here’s to a happy, healthy, and germ-conscious school year!