Children are prone to falling sick more often because of their underdeveloped immune systems and high exposure to germs at schools or creches. While most of these illnesses settle down on their own with care at home and without medications, sometimes it is advisable to see a doctor if the problem persists.

A common cold would perhaps be the most prevalent among childhood diseases in India, with flu being one of the most common viral illnesses in winter. While on an average, a child would suffer from six to eight bouts of cold a year, other widespread children’s ailments include allergies, skin issues, gastrointestinal disorders, eye and neurological problems and ear aches, among others. There are certain conditions which affect specific age groups of children more and the degree of severity also varies.

What is flu among children?

Flu or influenza is an extremely contagious infection which affect the lungs and afflicts children more during the winter season, causing body aches, sore throat, cough and fever, among other symptoms. The lifespan of a flu infection in children is usually less than a week, but if symptoms persist beyond that, hospital stay and treatment might be necessary. Sometimes the flu can also lead to a serious lung infection or pneumonia.

Doctors always advise parents to protect their children with the annual flu vaccine. The flu shot has become even more critical after the Covid-19 pandemic. The flu shot usually doesn’t interfere with other vaccines, but the doctor will know better.

common illnesses in children

Other common illnesses in children

Sore throat: This problem comes with pain and irritation, sometimes scratchiness in the throat, with cough and difficulty swallowing, aggravated while eating or drinking. While it can be triggered by a number of pathogenic bacteria or viruses, strep throat, caused by the Group A streptococcus, is the most infectious and painful. Antibiotics are prescribed for bacterial throat infections.
Skin infections: Children often suffer from skin problems, which can be caused by bacterial, fungal or viral infections or allergic triggers. Symptoms can include reddish, itchy skin, painful rashes, inflammation, and sometimes even fever. Doctors prescribe antibiotics, antifungals or antiviruses, depending on the cause.
Gastroenteritis: Intestinal infections are quite common among children, causing stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and sometimes fever. A combo of rehydration, rest and a non-spicy diet usually settles it, but sometimes medication might be required to treat a stomach bug.
Bacterial sinusitis: This often follows a cold when bacteria, trapped inside the sinuses, cause inflammation of the sinus lining. Symptoms could include thick, yellowish nasal discharge, headache, puffiness in the eyelids and irritability. The condition is treated with antibiotics.
Common cold: This is a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract (URTI), with rhinoviruses being the most common culprit. URTI is marked by runny and stuffy nose, cough and muscle aches and sometimes low-grade fever. Medicines, if required, are for relieving the symptoms.
Bronchitis: This is inflammation of the bronchial tube linings and is only temporary in most children (acute bronchitis). It can be precipitated by viruses, germs and substances that irritate the airways, and is characterised by cough, stuffy nose, chest congestion and mild fever. Doctors usually advise rest, hydration and sometimes cough or fever medications. Sometimes severe breathing problem may need hospitalization.
Ear ache: Pain in the ear/s can be caused by a number of triggers, from swimmer’s ear (an infection in the ear canal) to otitis media (ear infections), cold or sinus, and even toothaches that could shoot up the jaw to the ears. The doctor might prescribe a course of antibiotics to address the issue.
UTIs: Urinary tract infections are quite common among children, with girls often more affected than boys. It is caused by accumulation of bacteria and can affect any part of the urinary system, including the urethra, bladder, ureter and the kidneys. Common symptoms include painful and frequent urination, fever and abdominal pain. Antibiotics are usually prescribed to treat UTIs, along with lots of fluids to flush the system.

See More: Pediatric Medicine-pediatric Critical Care

In safeguarding children’s health, Narayana Health stands as a trusted partner for parents, providing dedicated and compassionate care for a wide range of common paediatric health issues. From respiratory infections and digestive concerns to growth, development, and preventive care, our specialised paediatric team is equipped with advanced medical expertise and a nurturing approach to support each child’s well-being.

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Watch Dr. Indranil Roy Choudhary on the importance of vaccinations and the convenience of online consultations for better health.