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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.

Skin Infections & Rashes

Acanthosis Nigricans

Acanthosis nigricans (AN) is a condition that causes the skin to thicken and darken in places. AN is not harmful or contagious, but can be a sign of certain other medical conditions.

Cellulitis

Cellulitis is an infection of the skin and underlying tissues that can affect any area of the body. It begins in an area of broken skin, like a cut or scratch.

Chickenpox (Varicella)

Chickenpox used to be common in kids, causing a very itchy red rash all over the body. But the good news is that a vaccine can prevent most cases.

Cold Sores

Cold sores are small painful blisters that can appear on or near the lips or nose. Learn symptoms, causes, and treatments, and how to help prevent cold sores.

Cradle Cap (Seborrheic Dermatitis) in Infants

This harmless condition - the infant form of dandruff - causes rough, scaly patches on a baby's skin.

Dandruff

Most cases of dandruff don't require a visit to a doctor's office. Treat them at home with special, over-the-counter dandruff shampoos.

Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)

Eczema can be an itchy nuisance and cause scratching that makes the problem worse. Many kids who have eczema today will be over it by the time they're teens.

Erythema Multiforme

By the looks of the "bulls-eye" marks this rash leaves on the skin, you might think it's cause for concern. But erythema multiforme clears up on its own within a few weeks.

Fifth Disease

Fifth disease is a viral illness that causes a red rash on the face, body, arms, and legs. It's especially common in kids ages of 5 to 15.

Genital Herpes

Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) that's usually caused by the herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2).