Children are prone to specific diseases. They are young and their immune systems are not as strong as that of adults. Children may develop rashes all over their body as a result of a viral infection. In some instances, childhood diseases can be potentially life-threatening. Fortunately, diseases that affect children typically have their treatments or resolve on their own.
Chickenpox
Chickenpox refers to a common childhood viral infection in which the varicella zoster virus specifically spreads throughout the body. The University of Maryland Medical Center says that it affects 75 to 90 percent of children younger than 10 years old. Symptoms of chickenpox include a headache, fever, swollen glands and a rash. The rash is red and can form blisters on the chest, abdomen or face. Unfortunately, the itching is very severe and uncomfortable. Risk factors for developing chickenpox involve being around infected children or persons who cough or sneeze and spray the virus into the air. The winter and spring months also make children susceptible to catching chickenpox. Treatment for chickenpox involves taking acetaminophen to relieve the fever and taking oatmeal baths to relieve the itching. Lotions and antihistamines such as diphenhydramine also treat the chickenpox. Typically, chickenpox should resolve within seven to 10 days.
Measles
Measles refers to another common childhood disease associated with such symptoms as a runny nose, a dry cough, a fever, light sensitivity and inflamed eyes. Other measles symptoms include a skin rash and white spots with bluish centers found in the inner lining of the cheek. Additional symptoms include a runny nose, a sore throat and a cough. The measles virus is to blame for this disease. It is also spread through coughing, sneezing and talking as this passes the infected virus between people. Risk factors for developing the measles include not being vaccinated, being deficient in vitamin A and traveling to countries where measles is rampant. Sometimes, no treatment is necessary to manage the measles. However, pain relievers such as ibuprofen and antibiotics can be taken. In some cases, measles sufferers must be placed in isolation so that the virus is not spread to other people. The measles typically last one week.
Fifth Disease
Fifth disease, also known as slapped cheek disease or parvovirus B19, is another common childhood illness that typically affects preschoolers and school-aged children, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. It states that symptoms of fifth disease include a rash that appears on both cheeks, joint pain, a fever and low red blood cells, also known as anemia. Typically, no treatment is necessary for fifth disease. Sometimes, acetaminophen can help relieve the pain. Fifth disease typically disappears within one to two weeks.
