Bacterial & Viral Infections

• Hepatitis A

  Hepatitis A is a contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV). The hepatitis A vaccine has helped to make the infection rare in the United States.

• Hepatitis B

  Hepatitis B virus (HBV) spreads from person to person through blood or other body fluids. A vaccine is approved for people of all ages to prevent HBV infection.

• Hepatitis C

  The hepatitis C virus (HCV) spreads through blood or other body fluids, and can lead to cirrhosis or liver cancer. The most common way people become infected is by sharing drug paraphernalia.

• Hib Disease (Haemophilus Influenzae Type b)

  Hib disease can cause serious illnesses like meningitis and pneumonia. To protect kids from this bacterial infection, they should receive the Hib vaccine as infants.

• HIV and AIDS

  Parents can help prevent HIV/AIDS by learning the facts and talking with their kids regularly about healthy behaviors, feelings, and sexuality.

• How to Handle a Cold

  Kids can get up to eight colds a year or more. Here’s how to help them feel better.

• How to Take a Rectal Temperature

  The best way to take a temperature in infants and young children is by taking a rectal temperature. Here’s how to do it.

• How to Take an Axillary (Armpit) Temperature

  The axillary (armpit) method is a convenient way to take a child’s temperature, especially for kids who can’t hold a thermometer in their mouths. Here’s how to do it.

• How to Take an Oral Temperature

  Taking an oral temperature is easy in an older, cooperative child. Most kids can have their temperature taken this way when they’re about 4–5 years old. Here’s how to do it.

• How to Talk to Kids About COVID-19

  Your kids are hearing about coronavirus (COVID-19). To make sure they get reliable information, here’s how to talk about it.