Childhood infectious diseases that are easily overlooked?
The younger a child is, the lower their ability to protect themselves. Generally, childhood infectious diseases can be divided into two major categories:
- Respiratory tract infections: usually spread through droplets
- Gastrointestinal problems: e.g. gastroenteritis
Children's infectious diseases are usually mild, such as respiratory infections that cause the common cold and flu, and gastroenteritis, which is also common and not usually too serious. However, if a child unfortunately contracts a more serious infectious disease, it can be a bit more worrying, for example, middle ear infections, pneumonia, and meningitis.
Meningococcal disease
Meningococcal bacteria are a type of bacterium that, if contracted, can cause meningitis. It is spread through droplets, meaning if a child has this bacterium and then coughs or sneezes on another person, the bacteria can be transmitted. Common symptoms in children include a high fever, vomiting, and persistent headaches. More severe symptoms include confusion, coma, or even seizures.
Meningitis is a relatively serious infectious disease. If a child gets infected, their condition can deteriorate quickly. If a child has these symptoms, parents should take them to the doctor as soon as possible! The mortality rate of meningitis is relatively high, and there are many long-term complications after recovery, so it should not be ignored.
Preventive measures
The most effective way to prevent meningococcal meningitis is by receiving the meningococcal vaccine. There are currently two vaccines available on the market: the first is the ACWY meningococcal vaccine; the second is the type B meningococcal vaccine. Neither of these is provided at Maternal and Child Health Centres. If parents wish to arrange for their children to be vaccinated with these two vaccines, it is recommended that they consult a paediatrician.
