COUGHS, colds, bugs and lice – the start of a new term often means fresh germs for your children.
Schools are breeding grounds for bacteria. And after six weeks of lazy days, the sudden switch to early mornings, a full curriculum and after-school clubs can leave children tired and prone to infections.
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Demand for head lice treatments typically peaks in autumn, while children pick up six colds a year compared to the average adult’s two to three. The common denominator? School.
We ask Dr Nicola Williams, a GP in Castleford, West Yorks, to give her top tips for keeping the back-to-school bugs at bay.
Head lice
Dr Williams says: “Lice spread through head-to-head contact. Not every child gets itching, so it is important to check your child’s head once a week.
“See onceaweektakeapeek.com for tips on checking. A head lice comb is more effective than just looking. The pharmacist can give information about treatments.”
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Conjunctivitis
“If the white of your child’s eye is red, itchy and sore it could be caused by infection or an allergy,” says Dr Williams.
“There will be a yellowy pus that sticks the eye together.
“If it does not improve without treatment, speak to your pharmacist or GP.
“Treat it with a clean piece of cotton wool and boiled cooled water by gently wiping the eye from the inside edge outwards.
“It is infectious, so wash your hands in hot soapy water and do not allow your child to share towels, flannels or pillows.”
Viral illnesses
Viruses such as the common cold are generally transmitted through touch or the air.
Dr Williams says: “The most common symptoms are a sore throat, runny or blocked nose, aching and a cough. Your child might also have a temperature and be more lethargic.
“Encourage them to drink as much as possible, give regular paracetamol and don’t allow them to share towels or cups.
“If your child has asthma, or if their temperature is high or they quickly worsen, go to your GP or dial 111.”
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Measles
“Measles is an airborne, highly infectious and dangerous disease,” warns Dr Williams. “There has been an alarming rise in cases this year.
“Symptoms are fever, runny nose, cough and sore eyes. The child can become very unwell.
“It is really important to give your child the MMR — Measles, Mumps and Rubella injection. Children can be vaccinated at any age.”
Molluscum Contagiosum
“These small white or red lumps are harmless,” says Dr Williams. “They do not need treatment but can take months to clear up.
“The virus spreads through close contact or by sharing towels.”
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Worms
“In children, these are usually threadworms,” says Dr Williams. “You might see a small white ‘thread’ in your child’s poo or around their bottom, and they might be itchy.
“Tell your child to wash their hands regularly and encourage them to avoid biting their nails as worms are spread when the eggs are swallowed.
“You can buy liquid to treat worms at the chemist.”
Hand foot and mouth disease
“Most common in primary school aged children this condition causes painful blisters on the hands and feet and inside the mouth,” says Dr Williams.
“Your child might also have a temperature and sore throat.
“Make sure they drink lots of fluids and give paracetamol. Seek advice if you are worried.”
Verrucas
Dr Williams says: “One of these on the sole of your foot is harmless but can be painful, annoying and embarrassing.
“They are caused by a virus. You can usually see a rough circular patch with tiny black spots under the skin.
“Try to prevent your child scratching or picking at the verruca or sucking their fingers after touching it. Don’t let them share towels, socks or shoes.
“Cover the verruca with a plaster when they go swimming. It can take months but they will usually resolve on their own.
“The pharmacist has various remedies.”
