As spring brings vitality back to the earth, it also ushers in significant temperature fluctuations and heightened activity of bacteria and viruses. Understanding these infectious diseases is key to preventing them and keeping our children safe.
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD)
HFMD often presents with mild symptoms that may or may not include fever. It is recognized by rashes or blisters on the hands, feet, mouth, buttocks, etc. While most cases are mild, a small number of patients can experience severe complications, and in rare instances, the disease can progress rapidly. Transmission is mainly through direct contact with infected individuals, including shared use of towels, utensils, clothing, and toys, as well as exposure to respiratory secretions, saliva, and feces.
Chickenpox
Characterized by an initial fever, headache, fatigue, sore throat, and loss of appetite, chickenpox symptoms quickly progress to a rash that forms red spots and blisters. The disease spreads primarily through respiratory droplets and direct contact.
Mumps
Mumps begin abruptly, with symptoms including swollen parotid glands, fever, cold sensitivity, headache, and loss of appetite. It spreads through respiratory droplets and contact with items contaminated by the virus.
Influenza (Flu)
Influenza is a highly contagious acute respiratory infection. It starts suddenly and is marked by severe systemic symptoms and milder respiratory issues. Transmission occurs via droplets from coughing or sneezing and through direct or indirect contact with the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, and mouth.
Norovirus
Norovirus primarily causes nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. It is spread through the fecal-oral route.
Tuberculosis
Symptoms of tuberculosis include coughing and sputum production lasting more than two weeks, sometimes with blood, accompanied by low-grade fever, chest pain, fatigue, and weakness. This disease is transmitted through respiratory droplets and dust.
Despite the variety of infectious diseases prevalent in spring, attentive prevention can significantly reduce their spread. Frequent handwashing, regular ventilation of living spaces, vaccination, and consuming well-cooked food are effective strategies. Early detection, isolation, diagnosis, and treatment are crucial steps in combating these illnesses.
By frequently washing our hands and covering our mouths and noses when coughing or sneezing, we can reduce the risk of infection. Together, let’s commit to safeguarding our children’s health this spring.
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Author:
Lina Mao
Health Center Officer (School Nurse)
