Childhood Illnesses
Common childhood illnesses
There are various illnesses your toddler/preschooler may develop. Some illnesses may be very serious, and require you to go to the doctor, and others may resolve on their own.
Chickenpox
- Chickenpox is a very common infection in childhood. It is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which only infects people (See chickenpox).
- There is a vaccine (varicella vaccine) now available to prevent chickenpox.
- Chickenpox is common in children and is usually mild. When adults get it, however, they can be very sick. Most adults have already had chickenpox and will not get it again.
- Chickenpox is also very dangerous for people with immune system problems like leukemia, or for people who are taking drugs which suppress the immune system, such as steroids.
Head lice
Head lice are tiny insects that are about 1 to 2 mm (one-eighth of an inch) long. They have special mouth parts for piercing the human scale. The scalp is punctured to obtain food, resulting in irritation and scratching. Their legs have six pairs of claws and six pairs of hoods that enable them to cling to the scalp. Head lice are a nuisance but not dangerous because they do not carry disease.
For more information:
Region of Peel - Public Health
905-799-7700
Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
to speak with a Public Health Nurse
Caledon residents call free of charge at 905-584-2216
Immunizations