Prevent the Unpreventable: 6 Killer Diseases Every Parent Should Know About for Their Child
As a parent, your main priority is to keep your child safe and healthy. However, there are some diseases that seem to be beyond your control. While you cannot prevent all illnesses, it does help to know what these diseases are. In this article, we’ll discuss six killer diseases every parent should know about for their child.
1. Meningococcal Disease
Meningococcal disease is a bacterial infection that can cause meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain) and septicaemia (blood poisoning). It can be spread through close contact such as coughing and sneezing. Symptoms include a fever, headache, and a stiff neck. Vaccination is available, and it is recommended for children aged 11-12 years with a booster dose at 16 years.
2. Measles
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that affects the respiratory system. It can cause serious complications such as pneumonia and encephalitis (inflammation of the brain). The symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose, and a rash. Vaccination against measles is available and it is recommended for all children aged over 12 months.
3. Whooping Cough
Whooping cough (pertussis) is a bacterial infection that affects the respiratory system. It causes violent coughing fits that can make breathing difficult. It can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia and seizures. Vaccination against whooping cough is available, and it is recommended for all children aged 2 months with booster doses up to age 18.
4. Polio
Polio is a viral infection that can cause paralysis. It can be spread through contaminated food or water, and close contact with an infected person. Symptoms include fever, headache, and muscle weakness. Vaccination against polio is available, and it is recommended for all children aged 2 months.
5. Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a viral infection that affects the liver. It can be spread through close contact with an infected person’s blood or bodily fluids. Symptoms include jaundice (yellowing of the eyes and skin), tiredness, and joint pain. Vaccination against hepatitis B is available, and it is recommended for all children at birth, with additional vaccinations up to age 18.
6. Rotavirus
Rotavirus is a viral infection that affects the digestive system. It can cause severe vomiting and diarrhea, leading to dehydration. Symptoms include fever, vomiting, and diarrhea. Vaccination against rotavirus is available, and it is recommended for all children at 2, 4 and 6 months old.
Conclusion
Preventing the spread of these diseases is important not only for your child’s health but for the health of others in your community as well. Talk to your child’s healthcare provider about vaccination and ensure that they are up to date with their immunizations. With vaccination, we can protect our children from these killer diseases and give them the healthy start they deserve.
(Note: Do you have knowledge or insights to share? Unlock new opportunities and expand your reach by joining our authors team. Click Registration to join us and share your expertise with our readers.)
Speech tips:
Please note that any statements involving politics will not be approved.