A practical, Nigeria-focused guide for early recognition, prevention, and when to seek care
Children commonly fall ill because their immune systems are still developing and they spend time in close-contact settings like homes, schools, and playgrounds. Knowing the most common childhood illnesses, their early warning signs, how they spread, and how to prevent them helps parents and schools act quickly, reducing complications, school absenteeism, and outbreaks.
Why this knowledge matters
- Children can deteriorate quickly if symptoms are missed or care is delayed.
- Schools are high-risk environments for the spread of infections.
- Many childhood illnesses are preventable through vaccination, hygiene, safe water, and routine health checks.
- Early detection protects not just one child, but entire classrooms and families.
1. Malaria
What it is: A mosquito-borne illness caused by Plasmodium parasites.
Why it matters: Malaria remains one of the leading causes of illness and school absenteeism among children.
Common symptoms
- Fever, chills
- Headache
- Vomiting
- Weakness or poor appetite
Prevention
- Sleeping under insecticide-treated nets
- Environmental mosquito control
- Prompt testing when fever occurs
When to seek care:
Any child with fever, especially if persistent, should be tested immediately.
2. Upper Respiratory Tract Infections (Cold & Flu)
What they are: Viral infections affecting the nose, throat, and airways.
Common symptoms
- Runny or blocked nose
- Cough, sore throat
- Mild fever
- Fatigue
How they spread
- Coughing and sneezing
- Close contact in classrooms
- Shared items
Prevention
- Handwashing
- Respiratory etiquette
- Annual flu vaccination
- Keeping sick children at home
3. Diarrhoeal Diseases
What they are: Infections of the digestive system caused by contaminated food or water.
Common symptoms
- Frequent loose stools
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Dehydration
High-risk settings
- Schools without clean water
- Poor hand hygiene after toilet use
Prevention
- Safe drinking water
- Handwashing with soap
- Food hygiene education
- Rotavirus vaccination (for infants)
4. Measles
What it is: A highly contagious viral illness.
Common symptoms
- High fever
- Cough, runny nose
- Red eyes
- Rash starting from the face
Why it’s dangerous
- Can cause pneumonia, brain infection, and death
- Spreads rapidly in unvaccinated school populations
Prevention
- Full childhood immunisation (MMR vaccine)
5. Chickenpox (Varicella)
What it is: A viral illness causing itchy blisters.
Common symptoms
- Fever
- Tiredness
- Itchy rash that turns into blisters
School impact
- Highly contagious
- Requires isolation until blisters dry up
Prevention
- Varicella vaccination
- Early identification and temporary exclusion from school
6. Ear Infections (Otitis Media)
What it is: Infection of the middle ear, common in young children.
Common symptoms
- Ear pain
- Fever
- Crying or irritability
- Reduced hearing
Why early care matters
- Repeated infections can affect hearing and learning
7. Skin Infections (Ringworm, Scabies, Impetigo)
What they are: Contagious skin conditions caused by fungi, mites, or bacteria.
Common symptoms
- Itchy rashes
- Circular patches on skin or scalp
- Sores with crusts
How they spread
- Skin-to-skin contact
- Shared towels, clothing, bedding
Prevention
- Personal hygiene
- Early treatment
- Avoid sharing personal items
8. Tonsillitis & Sore Throat Infections
What they are: Inflammation of the tonsils, often viral or bacterial.
Common symptoms
- Sore throat
- Fever
- Difficulty swallowing
- Swollen glands
School considerations
- Children with fever and sore throat should be evaluated before returning to school
9. Worm Infestations
What they are: Intestinal parasites common in children.
Common symptoms
- Weight loss
- Abdominal pain
- Itching around the anus
- Poor concentration
Prevention
- Regular deworming
- Clean water
- Handwashing
- Wearing footwear
10. Eye Infections (Conjunctivitis)
What it is: Inflammation of the eye caused by viruses, bacteria, or allergies.
Common symptoms
- Red eyes
- Discharge
- Itching
- Swelling
School policy tip
- Children with infectious conjunctivitis should stay home until treated.
What parents should do
- Keep vaccination records up to date
- Don’t ignore fever or persistent symptoms
- Encourage handwashing and hygiene at home
- Inform schools promptly when a child is ill
What schools should do
- Have a structured School Health Program
- Conduct routine health screenings
- Maintain clean water and sanitation
- Educate teachers on early symptom recognition
- Partner with healthcare providers for vaccination and diagnostics
Final takeaway
Most childhood illnesses are preventable, treatable, or manageable when detected early. Parents and schools play a shared role in protecting children’s health. Awareness, prevention, and timely medical care can save lives and keep children learning, growing, and thriving.
How Pretty Health Care can help
Pretty Health Care provides:
- School health programs
- Childhood vaccinations
- Diagnostic testing
- Clinic services for children and families
📞 Call: +2348114346325
🌐 Visit: https://prettyhealthcare.com.ng/
