Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the skin and tissue that can be life-threatening if left untreated. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, young children most often have complications with cellulitis, so if your child has a wound or area of peeling skin that develops a warm sensation accompanied with reddening and swelling, contact your child's pediatrician as soon as possible. According to MayoClinic.com, your toddler may be given oral antibiotics or hospitalized for IV antibiotics if necessary.
Cuts and Scrapes
According to MayoClinic.com, the lower legs are the most common area for cellulitis. Toddlers often have small cuts, scrapes and bruises on their legs since they do not have the same balance and coordination control as most adults. Although most common on the lower legs, cellulitis can still affect any area of the body. If your child has a cut, thoroughly cleanse the area with soap and water, apply an ointment, wrap or cover the cut and monitor the area to ensure it does not become infected.
Insect Bites
No matter how many times a parent says "don't itch it" after a child is bitten by an insect, most toddlers will still vigorously scratch these areas causing breaks that increase the risk of cellulitis. Having an anti-itch cream readily available when your child is outside can reduce your child's urge to itch.
Eczema
Eczema is a chronic skin condition that is most common in young children. A toddler with eczema may have dry, itchy skin with swelling and redness. Since dry skin can crack, increasing the risk for bacteria to enter, applying a moisturizer is an effective way to relieve dryness. If your child has eczema, speak to his pediatrician about moisturizers appropriate for his skin type.
Chicken Pox
Chicken pox can increase the risk of cellulitis because a toddler itching from chicken pox can break his skin with his fingernails, which can allow bacteria to enter the skin. In addition, before the blisters from chicken pox develop scabs in the healing process, they break open, often exposing open sores all over the body. Having your toddler vaccinated against the chicken pox virus can reduce this risk of cellulitis.
Animal Bites
According to Kids Health, cellulitis can happen quickly after an animal bite, so it's important to take your child to the doctor anytime he has been bitten. Even if your pet is current with all vaccinations, there is a still bacteria present, which increases your child's risk.
Athlete's Foot
Athlete's foot can cause cracking and peeling of the skin, allowing bacteria to enter. In addition, blisters that develop from athlete's foot can break and expose open sores, which again, increases the risk of entry from bacteria. To prevent the risk of your toddler developing athlete's foot, keep his feet clean and dry and always have him wear shoes in public restrooms and showers.
