Childhood Problems

Measles, mumps and German measles are becoming a thing of the past due to vaccination (MMR). It is important that your child is vaccinated as prevention is better than treatment.

Measles

The rash is blotchy and red and appears on the face and body on about the fourth day of feeling unwell and is often accompanied by a cough. It is most infectious from two to three days before the rash appears until 8-10 days afterwards. IMMUNISATION CAN PREVENT THIS DISEASE.

Mumps

The symptoms are swelling of the salivary glands in front of one ear, often followed a couple of days later by swelling in front of the other ear. It is infectious for two to three days before the swelling starts until 10 days afterwards. If the pain is severe, you could consult your doctor. IMMUNISATION CAN PREVENT THIS DISEASE.

German Measles

The rash appears during the first day of the illness and usually covers the body, arms and legs in small pink spots about 2-4mm large and does not itch. There are usually no other symptoms, apart from occasional aching joints. It is infectious from two days before the rash appears until the rash disappears in about four to five days. The only danger is to unborn babies and it is important to avoid people who are pregnant, although nowadays most expectant mums have been immunised as schoolgirls. IMMUNISATION CAN PREVENT THIS DISEASE.

Chickenpox

On the first day a rash appears with small red spots about 3-4mm wide. Within a few hours these develop small blisters at the centre. During the next three to four days further spots will appear and the earlier ones will turn crusty and fall off. Calamine lotion may be applied to help the itching; cool baths may also help. The most infectious period is two or three days before the rash appears until the last crusts have formed dry centres, usually 7-10 days after the rash started. Children may return to school as soon as the last crusts have dropped off.

All these infections are caused by viruses and usually require no treatment from the doctor. However, if your child appears particularly unwell or you are worried, your doctor will be happy to give you advice.

A Temperature

A temperature occurs commonly even with mild infections. In small children it is important to stop the temperature rising too quickly and children should be given paracetamol syrup, which may be bought from the chemist. If they still appear hot, they should be gently sponged all over with tepid water as in a bath or shower in order to cool them. It is sometimes necessary to carry this out for 20 or 30 minutes at a time, on more than one occasion, to get results. If a temperature is very high and does not come down with the above treatment, or the child appears very unwell with the temperature, you should consult your doctor. A child or adult with a temperature will not come to any harm being brought by car or pram to the surgery.

Nappy Rash

This can be prevented by keeping your baby's bottom clean and dry. No barrier creams are required with modern disposable nappies. If your child's napkin area does break down, take the nappy off as much as possible to let the air circulate and promote healing. If the rash persists your health visitor will be able to advise you.