Sooner or later every child gets an infection, and most will have several each year asthey grow up. That’s especially true throughout the first few years of life, as your child is exposed to new bacteria and viruses. Soothing a feverish child, encouraging him to drink fluids, and cheerleading as he swallows an unpleasant-tasting Medicine are all an inevitable part of parenting.
Fortunately, the symptoms of most infections last only a few days, whether specific treatment is needed or not. Some though, can be life-threatening or have long-term consequences. Some infections are common and can be expected to occur in almost every child. Some are extremely rare. Immunizations, which are among the most important developments in the history of medicine, have controlled or wiped out diseases that used to claim or wreck millions of lives.
More vaccines are on the way. Still, the majority of childhood infections can’t be prevented by immunizations. Different infections can have very similar signs and symptoms. And many noninfectious medical conditions can masquerade as infections, and vice versa. That’s why it’s important to consult your child’s doctor whenever you think your child might have a significant illness.
And remember that although we’ve written this chapter to be as up to date as possible, new treatments and ways to make diagnoses are constantly being developed, so be sure to get the latest information from your child’s doctor.