Childhood Ailments

Chicken Pox

The rash first appears with small red spots 3 or 4mm wide. Within a few hours these develop into small blisters at the centre. During the next three or four days more spots will appear and the earlier ones will turn crusty and fall off. Calamine lotion may be applied to reduce the itching.

The most infectious period is two or three days before the rash appears and remains until the last crusts have formed, usually seven to ten days after the rash started. Children may return to school as soon as the last crusts on exposed areas to skin have dropped off.

German Measles (Rubella)

The rash appears on the first day of the illness on the face and behind the ears, spreading to the body, arms and legs. Neck glands are usually swollen and sometimes tender. It is infectious for two days before the rash appears and while the rash is present, approximately three to four days. It is important to avoid women who are pregnant as the illness is dangerous to unborn babies. Immunisations can prevent this disease.

Measles

The rash is blotchy and red and appears on the face and body on about the fourth day of feeling unwell and is always accompanied by a cough and sore eyes. It is most infectious from two to three days before the rash appears until eight or ten days afterwards. Immunisations can prevent this disease.

Mumps

The symptoms are swelling of the salivary gland in front of one or other ear, often followed a couple of days later by swelling in front of the other ear. It is infectious for two or three days before the swelling starts until ten days afterwards. If the pain is severe, you should consult the Surgery. If your child appears particularly unwell or you are worried, Sister will be happy to give you advice. Immunisation can prevent this disease.

Temperature

A temperature naturally occurs 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 brought from the chemist. If they still appear hot, they should be gently sponged with tepid water in order to cool them.

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 own Doctor. A child or adult with a temperature will not come to any harm being loosely wrapped up and brought to the Surgery.

Sore Throat

Most sore throats are caused by viruses and will last three to four days before subsiding. Aspirin or paracetamol gargles or simple lozenges may help with the pain. If the symptoms persist, please consult the Surgery.