Paediatric Infectious Diseases

Paediatric infectious diseases often manifest through a range of symptoms, some of which may require immediate medical attention to prevent complications. Parents and caregivers should be vigilant if a child experiences any of the following:

• High Fever
  A temperature exceeding 38°C (100.4°F) in infants or persistently high in older children.
• Difficulty Breathing
  Wheezing, rapid breathing, or labored breaths are signs of respiratory infections or complications.
• Rash
  Sudden appearance of spots, blisters, or a widespread rash, especially if accompanied by a fever.
• Pain
  Severe or persistent pain, including ear pain, throat pain, or headaches, can indicate bacterial infections.
• Behavior Changes
  Unusual irritability, lethargy, or sleep disturbances.
• Vomiting and Diarrhea
  Frequent and persistent, which can lead to dehydration.

Early recognition of these symptoms followed by prompt medical consultation from the best pediatric infectious disease specialist can ensure timely diagnosis and treatment.

Children are susceptible to a variety of infectious diseases due to their developing immune systems. Some common conditions that causeinfectious diseases in children include:

• Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
  A virus causing severe respiratory issues in young children and infants.
• Chickenpox (Varicella)
  A highly contagious disease characterized by itchy, fluid-filled blisters and a mild fever.
• Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease
  Caused by enteroviruses, this infection leads to sores in the mouth and a rash on hands and feet.
• Scarlet Fever
  A bacterial infection resulting from strep throat that causes a distinct rash and red tongue.
• Ear Infections (Otitis Media)
  Common in children, often resulting from other infections like colds.
• Gastroenteritis
  Often caused by rotavirus or norovirus, leading to diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps.

Understanding the nature of these diseases can help in managing the infection and reducing the spread among children.

Treatment strategies for paediatric infectious diseases vary based on the severity and type of infection:

• Antivirals and Antibiotics
  While viral infections mostly require supportive care, severe cases might need antiviral drugs. Bacterial infections are treated with antibiotics, but it’s crucial these are prescribed by a healthcare provider to avoid resistance.
• Hydration and Nutrition
  Maintaining fluid intake is critical, especially in diseases causes dehydration and loss of fluids.
• Innovative treatments
  Diagnostic tools such as CT scans and bronchoscopy help diagnose the severity of infection and determine the best treatment.

Many of our pediatric infectious disease specialists offer OPDs at clinics in remote areas. We are determined to provide safe and advanced paediatric infectious disease treatment to everyone in and around Navi Mumbai.