Common Childhood Infections

An infectious disease spreads from one person to another, often through direct contact or through airborne or surface contamination. A person may need to stay home during the infectious period to prevent further spread.

How do infections spread?

Germs like bacteria, viruses, parasites, or fungi can be found in body fluids like:

• Stool (poop)

• Saliva (spit)

• Mucus

• Phlegm

They can spread:

• Through respiratory droplets (e.g., flu or fifth disease)

• By touching contaminated surfaces (e.g., toys, desks)

• Through contaminated food or water (e.g., E. coli, salmonella)

Infection prevention and control tips

• Encourage sick children to stay home

• Wash hands thoroughly with warm water and soap for 20 seconds

• Ensure access to alcohol-based hand sanitizer, soap and paper towels

• Teach children good handwashing and coughing/sneezing etiquette (into sleeve or tissue)

• Regularly clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces (e.g., doorknobs, toys)

• Properly dispose of tissues and contaminated items

For more on infection control, visit our Infection Prevention page.

When and how to report

Under Ontario law, school principals and child care operators must report when they suspect or know of a child with a reportable disease.

You must also report any increase in absenteeism or suspected outbreak in your school or facility.

To report, please call:

Southwestern Public Health – Infectious Disease Team

• St. Thomas: 519-631-9900 ext. 1232

• Woodstock: 519-421-9901 ext. 3500

• Toll-Free: 1-800-922-0096

Be prepared to provide:

• Your school or child care name

• Your name and role

• Child’s full name and date of birth

• Contact information (phone number and address)

• Name of the suspected or confirmed disease

• Child’s symptoms and date of symptom onset