Child health is closely linked to academic achievement and attainment and is also important for growth and social, mental and physical development. Poor health amongst children may also be linked to poverty and social exclusion.
Common childhood illnesses
Minor illnesses and infections are very common amongst children because their immune systems are not fully developed, which means that they are more susceptible to illness. The most common childhood illnesses include:
- Coughs and colds: coughs and colds often spread very quickly, especially once children start nursery and school. Viruses cause coughs and colds and there is no cure, however, taking pain relief will help to ease the symptoms and children should get plenty of rest and drink lots of water. Symptoms of colds and flu include sore throat, runny nose, itchy eyes, sneezing, sore ears and aches and pains.
- Sore throat: sore throats are usually associated with coughs, flu and colds.
- Ear infection: ear infections are very common amongst children and the main symptom is pain. Antibiotics can be given to treat ear infections.
- Asthma: asthma is becoming increasingly common and although many children grow out of asthma, some will continue to suffer during their adult years. Symptoms of asthma include wheezing and breathing difficulties. In some cases, asthma can be very serious and potentially life threatening, so it is important for children to carry their inhaler with them at all times.
- Eczema: eczema is a very common skin condition, which usually affects young children and, although many children grow out of eczema, it can still affect adults. There are many different treatments for eczema, including lotions and topical creams.
Promoting good health amongst children
It is impossible to prevent children from becoming ill but there are some simple steps parents and guardians can take to reduce the risk of their children getting ill. These include:
- Diet: diet is really important and figures show that more and more children are eating ready-made and fast foods, which have little nutritional value and are often high in salt, saturated fat and sugar. Childhood obesity is becoming increasingly common and is a major concern for the future. A healthy diet will help to boost your child’s immune system, making them more resistant to illnesses and infections. A good diet will also be beneficial for growth and development and is linked to academic achievement and better concentration. A healthy diet should include plenty of fruit and vegetables, complex carbohydrates, plenty of calcium-rich foods, protein and a moderated intake of fat.
- Health checks: make sure you take your child for regular health and dental check-ups. It is also important to take your child for their immunisations and you will receive a letter telling you when your child’s immunisations are due. Immunisations are important because they protect children from a host of childhood diseases.
- Exercise: figures show that children are doing les exercise and more sitting around in front of computer games and the television. Exercise is very important for children as it facilitates growth and development of strong muscles and bones and is beneficial for the organs. Exercise is also a great way for children to release energy, have fun and meet other children. The Department of Health recommends at least one hour of physical exercise everyday for children and this can include many different activities, from playing in the garden or walking to school, to going on a bike ride or swimming.









