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kidshealth library

health & safety topics

Your child's health and safety is our top priority. Please search our resource library for information on health, nutrition, fitness, injury prevention and other important topics.

Bacterial & Viral Infections

How to Handle Chickenpox

Chickenpox (varicella) has become less common in the U.S. due to the chickenpox vaccine, but it can easily spread from one person to another.

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.

Impetigo

Impetigo is a contagious skin infection that causes blisters or sores on the face, neck, hands, and diaper area. Learn how this common problem is treated and what can help prevent it.

Infant Botulism

Infant botulism can happen if a baby ingests bacteria that make toxins inside the body. Treatment can help a baby who gets it recover fully.

Infections That Pets Can Spread

Kids can benefit from the companionship, affection, and relationships they share with pets. But it's important to know how to protect your family from infections carried by pets and other animals.

Inflammation

Inflammation is one way the body reacts to infection, injury, or other medical conditions. Many things can cause it.

Is It a Cold, the Flu, an RSV Infection, or COVID-19?

The flu usually makes kids feel worse than if they have a cold. But it's not always easy to tell the difference. Here are tips on what to look for — and what to do.