Communicable diseases are easily transmitted between individuals, according to the National Resource Center for Respite and Crisis Care Services. Children cared for in day care centers and preschools often contract more illnesses than children who stay home. Germs may be airborne or can be transmitted through physical contact. Proper hygiene and hand washing can help decrease infection rates.
Chicken Pox
Chicken pox is highly contagious and is caused by the varicella virus. Symptoms of chicken pox include very distinct red, raised bumps, which may appear anywhere on the body. The bumps eventually become a full rash. It is typically very itchy and will scab over after three to four days, according to the Colorado Department of Public Health. Chicken pox is spread by direct contact with the infected child's bodily fluids, and the virus may be airborne as well. Children are contagious until every bump has dried and scabbed over.
Rotavirus
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), rotavirus is the leading cause of diarrhea in children. Rotavirus is spread via the fecal-oral route through contaminated food and water. Improper hand hygiene can also spread the virus. Frequent diarrhea is the most commonly recognized sign of a rotavirus infection, with more than 55,000 children hospitalized each year for intravenous hydration, according to the CDC. The infection is most severe for infants and young toddlers, with diarrhea that can last for one week. Children should be kept home as long as diarrhea is present due to the contagious nature of the virus.
Fifth Disease
Children with red cheeks and a lacy rash on their arms and legs may have Fifth disease. According to the Indiana Division of Family Resources, children are most contagious and able to spread this disease before the rash even appears. Fifth disease is transmitted through bodily secretions and may be spread by coughing or sneezing. A fever, headache and general body aches may also be present in a child with Fifth disease. Treatment involves keeping children comfortable by giving Tylenol.
Meningitis
According to the Mayo Clinic, meningitis is the swelling of the membranes around the brain and spinal cord, which may be caused by a virus or bacteria. Meningitis may be spread through bodily secretions or by the fecal-oral route. Symptoms are often similar to those of the flu, although many times stiffness in the neck is present. Children who are suspected of having meningitis should be seen by a health care provider immediately. Some types of meningitis require no treatment, but only a doctor can determine the type of meningitis present. Bacterial meningitis is the most serious and may require hospitalization and prompt treatment.
