Viral Illnesses
Viral Illnesses
Information for families about common viral illnesses, symptoms, prevention strategies and when to seek medical care.
Important: Most viral illnesses do not require antibiotics. Viral infections are usually self-limiting and improve with rest, fluids and supportive care.
What Are Viral Illnesses?
Viral infections are the most common cause of many childhood illnesses, including:
- Colds
- Coughs
- Fevers
- Most sore throats
- Most earaches
- Influenza (flu)
- Gastroenteritis
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Many childhood rashes
Most viral illnesses are mild and improve on their own, although they can cause significant discomfort.
How Do Viral Illnesses Spread?
Depending on the specific virus, infections may spread through:
- Airborne droplets from coughing or sneezing
- Direct contact with infected individuals
- Contaminated food or water
- Contact with contaminated surfaces
- Animal or insect transmission (certain viruses)
Prevention measures remain the best defense against viral infections.
Common Symptoms
- Fever or chills
- Sneezing
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Red or watery eyes
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Muscle aches
- Cough
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Decreased appetite
- Fatigue or decreased activity
- Rashes
When Should My Child Stay Home?
Students should remain home when they:
- Have a fever of 100°F or higher.
- Are vomiting or experiencing diarrhea.
- Feel too ill to participate in normal school activities.
- Have symptoms that may be contagious.
Students should return to school only after symptoms improve and they have been fever-free for at least 24 hours without fever-reducing medication.
How Can Symptoms Be Treated?
- Drink plenty of clear fluids.
- Get extra rest.
- Use a cool-mist humidifier for coughs or congestion.
- Follow healthcare provider recommendations.
- Treat fever with acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin) as directed.
Never give aspirin to children unless directed by a physician.
How Can Viral Illnesses Be Prevented?
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water.
- Avoid close contact with sick individuals.
- Cover coughs and sneezes.
- Dispose of tissues immediately.
- Clean frequently touched surfaces.
- Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth.
- Keep cuts and scrapes clean and covered.
When Should I Contact a Doctor?
Seek medical attention if your child:
- Has difficulty breathing or labored breathing.
- Develops a stiff neck.
- Becomes unusually sleepy, lethargic or difficult to wake.
- Has a fever lasting longer than 2-3 days.
- Appears dehydrated.
- Develops new or worsening symptoms.
Signs of dehydration may include:
- No tears when crying
- No urination for 6 or more hours
- Noticeable weight loss
- Extreme fatigue
- Refusal to drink fluids
Parents of students with communicable illnesses are encouraged to notify the school health office. Students should not attend school while contagious.
Need More Information?
Your family physician, school health office and local health department are excellent sources of information regarding communicable diseases and student health concerns.