As a foster carer welcoming a child into your home, it’s important to be prepared for some of the common childhood illnesses you may encounter. Knowing what to look out for and how to care for a sick child can help make these situations less stressful. Here are some of the most common childhood illnesses to be aware of:
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Colds and Flu
When you become a foster parent, be prepared for colds to keep doing their rounds. Colds and flu are very common in children. Symptoms include runny nose, cough, sore throat, fever, body aches, and fatigue. The flu tends to be more severe. Encourage rest, fluids, and comfort measures. Keep the child home from school if fever is over 100°F. Call the doctor if symptoms don’t improve after a few days or if fever persists.
Ear Infections
Ear infections are also very common in young children. Symptoms include ear pain, tugging at the ear, fever, and sometimes trouble hearing. Try a warm compress on the ear for comfort. Call the doctor, as antibiotics may be needed to clear the infection. Watch for drainage from the ear which could indicate a ruptured eardrum.
Stomach Bugs
Stomach viruses and food poisoning can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain and fever. Keep the child hydrated with small sips of fluid. Call the doctor if symptoms don’t improve after 24 hours or if the child shows signs of dehydration.
Pink Eye
Pink eye (conjunctivitis) is an eye infection causing redness, itching, discharge and crustiness around the eye. It’s very contagious so wash your hands frequently. Call the doctor for antibiotic eye drops.
Strep Throat
Strep throat is a bacterial throat infection causing sore throat, fever, stomach pain and red, swollen tonsils sometimes with white patches. It requires antibiotics so call the doctor to get the child tested and treated.
Head Lice
Head lice are tiny insects that live in the hair and scalp. Symptoms include itchy head and visible nits and eggs in the hair. Treat with medicated shampoo and nit combing. Check the whole household and treat anyone with evidence of lice.
Impetigo
Impetigo causes red sores on the face and body that weep fluid and crust over. The infection requires prescription antibiotic ointment. Keep sores covered and wash hands frequently to prevent spreading.
Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease
This viral infection causes fever along with sores in the mouth and blisters on hands, feet and sometimes buttocks and legs. Symptoms usually clear in a week. Offer soft foods, cool liquids and pain relievers as needed for comfort.
Roseola
Roseola begins with several days of high fever followed by a distinctive raised pink rash as the fever breaks. It’s generally mild and goes away on its own.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
RSV causes cold-like symptoms that can develop into bronchiolitis and pneumonia in infants. Watch for breathing difficulties and call the doctor right away if the child is having trouble breathing.
Being aware of these common conditions can help you quickly identify them and provide the proper care and treatment. Don’t hesitate to call the doctor, especially if the symptoms are severe, persistent or if you have any concerns about the child’s condition. Keeping detailed notes on symptoms and doctor recommendations will also ensure proper care. With preparation and vigilance, you can keep your foster child as comfortable and healthy as possible when illness strikes.