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Top 12 Contagious Diseases in Preschool

July 19, 2021 by Joy Anderson

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The top 12 most common contagious diseases in preschool are spread three ways: through the intestinal tract, the respiratory system, and through direct contact.  You can hinder the spread of contagious diseases by PROPER HAND WASHING.

  • Respiratory System: Diseases that spread through the respiratory system can also survive for hours or even days.  They are spread through coughing, sneezing, speaking, or even through the runny nose of an infected person.  Touching contaminated toys, tissues and objects can also spread these diseases.  
  • Direct Contact: Diseases that spread by direct contact (touching) include head lice, impetigo, scabies, and chicken pox.  Because rashes are not a normal state of health, and could be a symptom of contagious illness, teachers should discuss any rash noticed with the parents.  If a rash occurs suddenly with fainting, swelling, vomiting, and/or difficulty breathing, you should call 911 immediately.  
  • Intestinal Tract: Diseases that spread through the intestinal tract appear in the stool (bowel movement, feces) of anyone that has the infection, and can be spread by not following correct hygiene procedures and washing hands after using the toilet.  These germs can survive for hours or even days.  

Listed below are the most common contagious diseases in preschool settings:

1. COVID-19: CHILD SYMPTOMS AND TREATMENT

preschool-flu
  • SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
    Mild to moderate symptoms (recover at home): fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Emergency symptoms (go to hospital): difficulty breathing, persistent pain, pressure in the chest, new confusion or inability to arouse, bluish lips or face
  • IMMEDIATE INTERVENTION
    If fever is present, isolate the preschooler and send home
  • INCUBATION PERIOD
    2-14 days
  • CONTAGIOUS PERIOD
    Varies by region. Consult your local health department.
  • TRANSMISSION
    Primary way: Spread through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes, usually between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet). Secondary way: Spread through touching a surface that has been contaminated with respiratory droplets of an infected person.
  • EXCLUSION FROM PRESCHOOL
    Varies by region. Consult your local health department.
  • TREATMENT AT PRESCHOOL
    Sanitize anything contaminated by the respiratory droplets of an infected individual.
  • PARENT TIPS
    Highly contagious. Sanitize anything contaminated. Infected individual should wear a mask. All individuals in the home should wash hands often for at least 20 seconds and avoid touching their eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands. Family should self-isolate in home until instructed to discontinue home isolation (contact health department for protocol.)

2. INFLUENZA (FLU): CHILD SYMPTOMS AND TREATMENT

preschool-covid
  • SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
    Sudden onset of fever to 103 degrees F, chills, headache, muscle ache, sore throat, runny nose, cough. Occasional vomiting.
  • IMMEDIATE INTERVENTION
    If fever is present, isolate the individual and send home
  • INCUBATION PERIOD
    2-4 days
  • CONTAGIOUS PERIOD
    Three days from the onset of symptoms
  • TRANSMISSION
    Spread by contact with the secretions from the nose, mouth and throat of an infected individual, or items that have been contaminated with secretions.
  • EXCLUSION FROM PRESCHOOL
    Can return after fever-free for 24 hours
  • TREATMENT AT PRESCHOOL
    Sanitize anything contaminated by the secretions from the nose, mouth, and throat of an infected individual
  • PARENT TIPS
    Caused by a virus that usually occurs October thru April. Sanitize anything contaminated by the secretions from the nose, mouth, and throat of an infected individual.

3. CONJUNCTIVITIS (PINK EYE): CHILD SYMPTOMS AND TREATMENT

preschool-pink-eye
  • SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
    Watering, irritation and redness of the white part of the eye and/or the lining of the eyelids. Swelling of the eyelids, sensitivitiy to light, and a pus-like discharge may occur.
  • IMMEDIATE INTERVENTION
    If severe redness or pus-like discharge is present in the eye(s), isolate the individual and send home
  • INCUBATION PERIOD
    2-4 days
  • CONTAGIOUS PERIOD
    From the onset of symptoms and until 24 hours after beginning treatment
  • TRANSMISSION
    Spread by contact with the discharge from the eyes, or items that have been contaminated with the discharge
  • EXCLUSION FROM PRESCHOOL
    Can return after 24 hours of beginning treatment and symptoms are greatly reduced
  • TREATMENT AT PRESCHOOL
    Sanitize anything contaminated by the discharge of the eyes of an infected individual
  • PARENT TIPS
    Highly contagious. Sanitize anything contaminated by the discharge of the eyes of an infected individual. Children should not share washcloths, towels, or blankets. To clean the discharge from the eye, take a warm washcloth and wipe one eye, starting at the bridge of the nose and moving outward. Use a different washcloth for the other eye. Launder all washcloths, towels, and clothing in hot washer and dryer.

4. STREP THROAT: CHILD SYMPTOMS AND TREATMENT

preschool-strep-throat
  • SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
    Sudden onset of fever to 103 degrees F, red sore throat, listlessness, swollen glands, nausea, and headache. Tonsils may have white spots.
  • IMMEDIATE INTERVENTION
    If fever is present, isolate the individual and send home
  • INCUBATION PERIOD
    1-3 days
  • CONTAGIOUS PERIOD
    Untreated: 10-21 days. Treated with antibiotics: Up to 48 hours after first dose
  • TRANSMISSION
    Spread by contact with the secretions from the nose, mouth and throat of an infected individual, or items that have been contaminated with secretions.
  • EXCLUSION FROM PRESCHOOL
    Can return after 48 hours after starting oral antibiotics and fever-free for 24 hours
  • TREATMENT AT PRESCHOOL
    Sanitize anything contaminated by the secretions from the nose, mouth, and throat of an infected individual
  • PARENT TIPS
    Highly contagious. Caused by streptococcal bacteria. Sanitize anything contaminated by the secretions from the nose, mouth, and throat of an infected individual.

5. CHICKEN POX: CHILD SYMPTOMS AND TREATMENT

preschool-chicken-pox
  • SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
    Low-grade fever for 1-3 days, loss of appetite or headache. Rash appears first like insect bites then progresses into red, raised lesions with small fluid-filled blisters. Blisters break and scab over within 5-10 days. Blisters can also be present on scalp and armpits, and in genital area, mouth and ears.
  • IMMEDIATE INTERVENTION
    If fluid-filled blisters or fever is present, isolate the individual and send home
  • INCUBATION PERIOD
    14-16 days
  • CONTAGIOUS PERIOD
    Two days before blisters appear until all blisters have dry scabs
  • TRANSMISSION
    Spread by contact with the fluid in the blisters or items contaminated with the fluid. Also spread by contact with nose and mouth secretions spread by coughing or sneezing
  • EXCLUSION FROM PRESCHOOL
    Can return after all blisters are scabbed over and dry and fever-free for 24 hours
  • TREATMENT AT PRESCHOOL
    Launder all contaminated items in hot washer and dryer.
  • PARENT TIPS
    Highly contagious. Chickenpox is one of the most common infections of childhood. It is rarely a serious health threat to otherwise healthy people. Remind children not to pick at scabs. Launder all contaminated items (clothing, bedding, towels, washcloths, etc.) in hot washer and dryer.

6. HEAD LICE: CHILD SYMPTOMS AND TREATMENT

preschool-lice
  • SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
    Itching of the scalp. Lice and nits (eggs) found in hair; especially at nape of neck and behind ears
  • IMMEDIATE INTERVENTION
    If live lice or nits are present, isolate the individual and send home
  • INCUBATION PERIOD
    6-14 days
  • CONTAGIOUS PERIOD
    While live lice or nits are present on the head or in the environment
  • TRANSMISSION
    Spread by direct head-to-head contact with an infected individual, or indirect contact through sharing contaminated items (combs, brushes, head phones, towels, hats, coats, mats, etc.)
  • EXCLUSION FROM PRESCHOOL
    Can return after initial treatment has been completed and is nit-free.
  • TREATMENT AT PRESCHOOL
    Check all children for lice or nits. Launder all fabric materials (towels, removable upholstery, puppets, etc.) in hot washer and dryer. Place items that cannot be cleaned (rugs, stuffed animals, etc.) in a sealed plastic bag for 14 days. Vacuum carpet.
  • PARENT TIPS
    Lice cannot survive more than 24 hours off of our heads. Check all family members for lice or nits. Treat infected individuals with over-the-counter lice shampoo and remove all nits with a Licemeister comb. Throw away all combs and brushes. Do not share new combs and brushes. Launder all fabric belongings of the infected individual (recently used bedding, towels, clothing, etc.) in hot washer and dryer. Place items that cannot be cleaned (rugs, stuffed animals, etc.) in a sealed plastic bag for 14 days. Vacuum carpet, mattresses, and upholstery.

7. IMPETIGO: CHILD SYMPTOMS AND TREATMENT

preschool-impetigo
  • SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
    Itchy rash that begins as “pimples” around the mouth area but quickly evolves into major skin eruptions filled with cloudy or clear colored pus. Evolves into small blisters that spread discharge to skin surfaces when broken, eventually forming white or yellow crusty scabs.
  • IMMEDIATE INTERVENTION
    If sores around the mouth are present, cover with bandage and refer to a doctor. Antibiotics may be prescribed.
  • INCUBATION PERIOD
    4-10 days
  • CONTAGIOUS PERIOD
    While untreated sores are present
  • TRANSMISSION
    Spread by contact with the sores, contaminated hands, or items that have been contaminated (face cloths, tissues, etc.)
  • EXCLUSION FROM PRESCHOOL
    Can return 24 hours after starting oral antibiotics or 48 hours after starting antibiotic ointment
  • TREATMENT AT PRESCHOOL
    All paper towels, tissues, bandages, and gloves must be disposed of immediately after use. Launder all contaminated items in hot washer and dryer.
  • PARENT TIPS
    Highly contagious. Caused by common skin germs which only cause trouble when the skin is injured by a cut, scrape or scratched insect bite. Do not share washcloths, towels, etc. All paper towels, tissues, bandages, and gloves must be disposed of immediately after use. Launder all contaminated items in hot washer and dryer.

8. HAND, FOOT, MOUTH DISEASE: CHILD SYMPTOMS AND TREATMENT

preschool-hand-foot-mouth
  • SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
    Sudden onset of fever to 103 degrees F, sore throat, cold-like symptoms, headache, tired, nausea, diarrhea or vomiting. Red, raised rash can last 1-19 days and appears mostly on trunk and face but may appear in fluid-filled bumps on palms of hands or soles of feet. May see blisters in mouth.
  • IMMEDIATE INTERVENTION
    If mouth sores or fever is present, isolate the individual and send home
  • INCUBATION PERIOD
    3-5 days
  • CONTAGIOUS PERIOD
    While fever and sore throat are present; may be present in stool for several weeks
  • TRANSMISSION
    Spread by contact with the secretions from the nose, mouth and throat, or items that have been contaminated with secretions. Also contact with food or surfaces contaminated with stool.
  • EXCLUSION FROM PRESCHOOL
    Can return after mouth sores are no longer present and fever-free for 24 hours
  • TREATMENT AT PRESCHOOL
    Sanitize anything contaminated with stool and secretions of the nose, throat and mouth
  • PARENT TIPS
    Although the name is similar to foot-and-mouth disease of animals, the two diseases are not related at all. Most individuals will recover without treatment within 7-10 days. Sanitize anything contaminated with stool and secretions of the nose, throat and mouth.

9. E. COLI: CHILD SYMPTOMS AND TREATMENT

preschool-e-coli
  • SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
    Diarrhea, abdominal cramps, blood in the stool
  • IMMEDIATE INTERVENTION
    If diarrhea is present, isolate the individual and send home
  • INCUBATION PERIOD
    3-4 days
  • CONTAGIOUS PERIOD
    Up to 3 weeks
  • TRANSMISSION
    Spread by contact with materials that have been contaminated with stool
  • EXCLUSION FROM PRESCHOOL
    If confirmed with having the disease, can return after having 2 approved stool specimens collected at least 24 hours apart that are both negative for the disease
  • TREATMENT AT PRESCHOOL
    Sanitize anything contaminated with stool.
  • PARENT TIPS
    Usually caused by eating undercooked beef or unpasteurized milk that contains E. coli bacteria, or eating fruit and vegetable products fertilized or irrigated with contaminated water. Sanitize anything contaminated with stool.

10. SALMONELLOSIS: CHILD SYMPTOMS AND TREATMENT

preschool-salmonella
  • SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
    Diarrhea, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, dehydration, abdominal cramps or fever.
  • IMMEDIATE INTERVENTION
    If diarrhea is present, isolate the individual and send home
  • INCUBATION PERIOD
    12-36 hours
  • CONTAGIOUS PERIOD
    From several days to several weeks
  • TRANSMISSION
    Spread by contact with materials that have been contaminated with stool
  • EXCLUSION FROM PRESCHOOL
    If confirmed with having the disease, can return after having 2 approved stool specimens collected at least 24 hours apart that are both negative for the disease
  • TREATMENT AT PRESCHOOL
    Sanitize anything contaminated with stool.
  • PARENT TIPS
    Usually caused by eating raw and undercooked eggs, poultry and meat or drinking unpasteurized milk that contains Salmonella bacteria. Sanitize anything contaminated with stool.

11. CRYPTOSPORIDIOSIS (CRYPTO): CHILD SYMPTOMS AND TREATMENT

preschool-crypto
  • SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
    Diarrhea (loose, watery stool), cramps, upset stomach, or fever
  • IMMEDIATE INTERVENTION
    If diarrhea is present, isolate the individual and send home
  • INCUBATION PERIOD
    7-10 days but as long as 21 days
  • CONTAGIOUS PERIOD
    While person has diarrhea; may be present in stool for up to 2 months
  • TRANSMISSION
    Spread by contact with materials that have been contaminated with stool
  • EXCLUSION FROM PRESCHOOL
    If confirmed with having the disease, can return after having 2 approved stool specimens collected at least 24 hours apart that are both negative for the disease
  • TREATMENT AT PRESCHOOL
    Sanitize anything contaminated with stool.
  • PARENT TIPS
    Usually caused by swallowing water from lakes, rivers, springs, ponds, streams, irrigation water, hot tubs, Jacuzzis or swimming pools that contain Cryptosporidium bacteria. Also, eating contaminated, uncooked food (especially unwashed vegetables or fruit.) Sanitize anything contaminated with stool.

12. FIFTH DISEASE: CHILD SYMPTOMS AND TREATMENT

preschool-fifth-disease
  • SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
    Low fever, headache, body ache, nausea or chills for 2-3 days. About a week later, a bright red rash appears on cheeks and looks like the cheeks have been slapped. May also have scattered red raised spots on chin, forehead and behind ears. Then a lace-like rash spreads to upper arms and legs, and sometimes the trunk. Lacy rash may disappear and reappear over a period of weeks and is made worse by sunlight.
  • IMMEDIATE INTERVENTION
    If fever is present, isolate the individual and send home
  • INCUBATION PERIOD
    4-14 days
  • CONTAGIOUS PERIOD
    Before the appearance of the rash during mild symptoms
  • TRANSMISSION
    Spread by contact with the secretions from the nose, mouth and throat, or items that have been contaminated with secretions.
  • EXCLUSION FROM PRESCHOOL
    Can return after fever-free for 24 hours
  • TREATMENT AT PRESCHOOL
    Sanitize anything contaminated by the secretions from the nose, mouth, and throat of an infected individual.
  • PARENT TIPS
    Seen most often in late winter and early spring. Sanitize anything contaminated by the secretions from the nose, mouth, and throat of an infected individual.

We hope this complete guide of the contagious diseases in preschool (including their symptoms and treatments) has been helpful to you!

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Mary Weiss

    January 1, 2022 at 8:49 am

    What I love about this article is that this information helps us to keep our students, their families, and learning environment safe. Although their educational learning is very important and the purpose of our preschools, our #1 priority is to make sure that first and foremost, they are safe. Also it would have taken me a lot of research time and effort that I don’t have to get all the information together, figure out what info is needed and what is not, then put it all together to share with my families. Now, I don’t have to. This article gives us the info that we need. Nothing more, nothing less. I Love it!

    Reply
  2. Christine Marte

    January 1, 2022 at 4:44 am

    Lots of specific, beneficial information to know about different sicknesses. Very, very helpful to have symptoms in one spot and see the differences.

    Reply
  3. Connie Doctor-Jones

    January 1, 2022 at 4:23 am

    I like that the explanation of the different ailments have the photos to give you a visual as to what to look for.

    Reply
  4. Ashley Gallien

    January 1, 2022 at 3:53 am

    Now this is very much information to know. If your local or online. You may feel like being an online teacher you may not need to know this but in actuality you do! You can be helpful to a parent in need of an uncommon illness and this will give you that confident boost as a teacher to know you were knowledgeable no matter your location of teaching!

    Reply
  5. Acea

    January 1, 2022 at 2:44 am

    The fact that this gives such critical information for each and every infection is amazing! I especially love how this addresses what preschools and parents can do to treat everything immediately!

    Reply
  6. Shunta

    January 1, 2022 at 2:33 am

    The top 12 contagious diseases in preschool is a must read for any parent, teacher, child care professional, or anyone working with children for an extended amount of time. I must say, having worked with children for an extended amount of time there were a few diseases on this list that I’ve never heard off . Having this information handy is a plus!!!!!

    Reply
  7. Rhonda McCarthy

    January 1, 2022 at 12:34 am

    I love knowing I can find symptoms of so many childhood diseases on one site. I like the idea of being able to find answers all in one place without having to spend hours searching many sites by symptom. It’s all here!

    Reply
  8. seeta khan

    January 1, 2022 at 12:25 am

    I have learned so much from this information shared here, I can now be aware of these symptoms, knowing what to do and how to deal with this covid situation can never be over emphases.

    Reply
  9. Brittany Klop

    January 1, 2022 at 12:22 am

    Great resource for parents and teachers alike. you ladies did a great job.

    Reply
  10. Brittany Klop

    January 1, 2022 at 12:11 am

    I love this idea. I wish had this list in my binging years while working in daycare and sending my kids to daycare. I also another good one to know is about Croup. other then that great information.

    Reply
  11. Allisen Brownell

    January 1, 2022 at 12:05 am

    This is the best presentation ever! So helpful. Sharing with my preschool! Thank you so much for putting this all in one super easy to understand and refer to resource. Simply amazing!!

    Reply
  12. Jameisha

    December 31, 2021 at 11:54 pm

    Wow! I didn’t know there were so many different diseases. Bookmark 🔖

    Reply
  13. Cathy Terrell

    December 31, 2021 at 11:42 pm

    This is a very comprehensive list of all the viruses, illnesses and contagions that our little ones are vulnerable to. Although I don’t have to worry about these types of exposures as an online preschool owner/teacher, it is a fantastic tool to make available to my parents, especially those whose preschoolers have siblings in elementary school as well. This is an excellent reference guide for any parent with young children!

    Reply
  14. Dana Burton

    December 31, 2021 at 11:18 pm

    This is great information to have and share with your parents. This information could be a section in your parent handbook to let parents know how you will handle these situations in the school.

    Reply
  15. Heather Austin

    December 31, 2021 at 10:10 pm

    This is helpful. Preschool.org truly has everything for the early education community. Thanks!

    Reply
  16. Elizabeth Wright

    December 31, 2021 at 9:58 pm

    This is a very comprehensive guide! I love that symptoms are listed for each disease and also treatment plus when it’s safe to return to school! Very helpful article overall!

    Reply
  17. Brenda

    December 31, 2021 at 9:56 pm

    I can’t thank you enough for this resource Joy!! All school nurse in early childhood should have this resource.

    Reply
  18. Anabel

    December 31, 2021 at 9:19 pm

    Great information to have handy!

    Reply
  19. Darlene Williamson

    December 31, 2021 at 7:50 pm

    Useful information.

    Reply
  20. Geni Ainge Morse

    December 31, 2021 at 7:40 pm

    Eeewwww! Kids are germ magnets! Fantastic information on the most common diseases. WASH YOU HANDS!

    Reply
  21. Felicia

    December 31, 2021 at 7:37 pm

    This Article was so informing. I always look for ways to make sure that kids are ok. Definitely strategies and plans are put in place to keep everyone safe when we come to our Space, but even if my students online aren’t filling their best. I ask their parents to let students rest because they still need it, even though we don’t have in person Sessions Regularly. I’m glad that I can use this Resource to constantly refer back to.😊

    Reply
  22. Y D

    December 31, 2021 at 6:16 pm

    Great resource for teachers and to share with parents! I love the easy to read categories under each disease

    Reply
  23. Tina

    December 31, 2021 at 6:03 pm

    It is so important that you know what to look for but also take the time to stress the importance of preventing the spread of these diseases with your parents so they also know what to look for and that they know your center’s policies on them!

    Reply
  24. Lisa Wigdor

    December 31, 2021 at 5:58 pm

    Very helpful in distinguishing between sickness and knowing how to help students when they are not feeling well.

    Reply
  25. Naomi W

    December 31, 2021 at 3:28 pm

    This is great and informative. No germ can live here.

    Reply
  26. Bryonna Harrington

    December 31, 2021 at 12:44 pm

    This is so helpful because now I know what some of these things look like. Even if I’ve heard of it, it’s good to have pictures. Also this was so helpful it reminds me of the certification course you take online. It’s all here. This site is out of sight!

    Reply
  27. Chrissy

    December 31, 2021 at 12:02 pm

    😱 It’s a sad day when you cannot preschool because your sick 🤕 but even more sad when you share your germs 🦠 with your friends.🤢
    Thank goodness 😅 for this health wise article I definitely needed to brush up , and will not be forgetting to do quick health checks before preschool starts for the day ever …. Thanks for helping us all keep on point . With this list and Be mindful of providing a healthier preschool experience!!!
    Love this article but also feel that I need to wash my hands 🙌 … while singing the alphabet and counting to 25 . 😊😂♥️❤️

    Reply
  28. Lisa Lucas

    December 31, 2021 at 8:31 am

    I love being able to know what to look for, and how to help parents so that they can get the help they need. After all I want all the kiddos in class each day to their fullest potential!

    Reply
    • LisaRenee Fogarty

      December 31, 2021 at 6:26 pm

      For teachers, directors and parents to have this info at their fingertips is very helpful. I suggest even printing it

      Reply
  29. Mya Phillips

    December 31, 2021 at 6:47 am

    This is laid out really well and is very informative. I didn’t know about some of these, so I would definitely print these out, laminate and have in a folder for quick access.

    Reply
  30. Shana Weldon

    December 31, 2021 at 6:30 am

    Germs, germs, germs are always present in classrooms. This is such valuable information for identifying and responding to these situations to ensure the health and safety of students.

    Reply
  31. Lori Sekol

    December 31, 2021 at 4:11 am

    I love the way this is laid out. Some of these I was not familiar with. Childhood illnesses are common, and when children come in contact with people outside their family, they can contract many diseases. Thank you for having this resource available in one place.

    Reply
  32. Jamie Brucker

    December 31, 2021 at 1:29 am

    This should be posted in every preschool staff lounge area. Good reminders of what to look for.

    Reply
  33. Becky Hellebust

    December 31, 2021 at 1:26 am

    I honestly didn’t know about some of these. It’s good information for myself as we don’t have a nurse in every school anymore. The unfortunate part of some of these is the children can’t be excluded from school such as with hand, foot and mouth. Children are also allowed back to school if they have nits but not live lice.

    Reply
    • Darlene Shank

      December 31, 2021 at 2:31 am

      This is a concise list. I like the way it is presented. We have a book at the center, but this may be more user friendly.

      Reply
    • Saimah Hameeduddin

      December 31, 2021 at 2:54 pm

      This was so helpful for me personally! Thank you for creating this, will be very helpful to share out with staff and parents at the beginning of the year as well as reminders as we approach flu season.

      Reply
  34. Vivian

    December 31, 2021 at 1:14 am

    LOVE this resource, especially for parents. Some new parents are not aware of what to do for these or when they should keep their child home!

    Reply
  35. Yuneisy

    December 30, 2021 at 10:27 pm

    Yikes! And to think that some schools don’t always follow these guidelines properly. Great resource!

    Reply
    • Cordelia Nkembo

      December 31, 2021 at 2:40 am

      This information gives us an idea of what diseases and health issues that can exist and be transferred from child to child, and how they are transferred. Educators and parents must be aware and play close attention to how to recognize problems and act quickly to resolve. Very important and vital information.
      Thanks a lot!

      Reply
  36. John, Achele Victoria

    December 30, 2021 at 9:58 pm

    I love this section that deals with their health, because if they are not healthy, they will not be a preschool, it helps us to be on the watch out,to take precautions,and take safety measures at protection both the infected and the once that are not infected, I love this so much, thanks

    Reply
  37. Valerie W.

    December 30, 2021 at 9:35 pm

    Thank you so much for the helpful resource. Now, we will all know what to look out for and can keep our children and others out of harms way.

    Reply
  38. Tiffanie Watts

    December 30, 2021 at 8:55 pm

    Very well thought out! I will be sharing this website with the parents that are in our program.

    Reply
  39. Cyndi Baker

    December 30, 2021 at 7:15 pm

    Having a clear policy laid out at the beginning of the year can prevent so many questions and uncomfortable conversations.

    Reply
  40. April B

    December 30, 2021 at 6:24 pm

    Getting sick is all part of caring for children! Either they will get sick or you and your staff will get sick. Hand washing, proper sanitizing and disinfecting is key! Thank you!

    Reply
  41. Paula Farris

    December 30, 2021 at 6:21 pm

    When my children were younger, two of them passed Fifth Disease back and forth between them for 6 weeks! If I wasn’t cuddling a miserable child I was disinfecting something. Even a homeschool classroom isn’t exempt from these diseases. It was a long 6 weeks!

    Reply
  42. Kari

    December 30, 2021 at 6:07 pm

    An excellent resource for first time parents sending their children to preschool. It’s also a great reminder for teachers.

    Reply
  43. Christina

    December 30, 2021 at 5:50 pm

    Love the pictures and how legible the information is!

    Reply
  44. Krista

    December 30, 2021 at 2:32 pm

    A great resource for parents too!

    Reply
  45. Christy

    December 30, 2021 at 2:31 pm

    Wow, I would have never thought of putting together a list like this. What an valuable resource to have! Let’s all start by boosting those immune systems parents! That will go a long way in fighting off many sicknesses!

    Reply
  46. YummYee’ Cary-Boyd

    December 30, 2021 at 9:44 am

    Precautions, Safety and Sanitation is the upmost importance in a preschool environment. I am so glad to learn even more about these measures to protect and treat each and every child I come in contact with, so others: (teachers, parents and classmates), will be protected also. Learning more about ALL these sickness and diseases can help me run a better protected and informative preschool in the future.
    Thank You so much, this information was very imperative to know.

    Reply
  47. Lena

    December 30, 2021 at 8:10 am

    Very informative, clear and well-organized! Thanks for sharing! I’ve never even heard of some of the diseases!

    Reply
  48. Janae

    December 30, 2021 at 4:29 am

    Very informative a little frightening but very useful

    Reply
    • Jessica Coon

      December 30, 2021 at 11:34 am

      Great understanding and to know the signs beforehand.

      Reply
  49. Cyra Gish

    December 30, 2021 at 4:21 am

    I had no clue there were so many common contagious diseases found in preschools.this was an eye opener.

    Reply
  50. Tari Blankenship

    December 30, 2021 at 2:57 am

    Very well organized! Thank you for sharing!

    Reply
  51. Meena S (Meena A on FB)

    December 30, 2021 at 2:30 am

    Hygiene is apart of learning too – a vigilant eye and attentiveness to the care and nurturing we provide to our young ones is essential in this day and age. Each child should appear in good health upon arrival and this list helps greatly to know when to make note, contact parent(s)/care giver(s) with sound mind and heart.

    Reply
  52. Kimberley Ann Hoodie

    December 30, 2021 at 2:23 am

    Coming from 2020 being the worst year in national history our kids have survived! While we pray for those who were not as fortunate we have to be prepared for anything at any moment!

    Reply
  53. Linda Morin

    December 30, 2021 at 1:06 am

    No one likes to be sick!
    Thank you for this comprehensive list, and for the necessary pictures –
    only by facing the disturbing truths can we know what’s going on, and how to heal.
    Every child, every person is at risk for illness, every business should have this guide, and honour it; when a child is sick a working parent needs the respect of time off as well.
    May we all stay safe and healthy, and admit when it’s time to stay home and get well. <3

    Reply
  54. Kathlene Burton

    December 30, 2021 at 1:00 am

    This is a GREAT resource to be able to know each sign of the common illnesses we can encounter! As a preschool owner, I have had to have a talk with parents who say “my child is coughing with a runny nose are they okay to come in?” I will be able to easily say if there are x, x, and x-factors that are with this then…

    Reply
  55. Nancy

    December 30, 2021 at 12:07 am

    Great to have this information at your fingertips. I would love to have it all together to pass out to my parents.

    Reply
  56. Debbie Serrano

    December 29, 2021 at 11:25 pm

    Interesting

    Reply
  57. Jenni Smith

    December 29, 2021 at 11:21 pm

    Great reference that covers everything from the symptom to the treatment and everything in-between!

    Reply
  58. Lana

    December 29, 2021 at 10:02 pm

    This was so informative! Being sick is never fun, but this list helps me feel better equipped at identifying/treating the 12 most common contagious diseases. Thank you!

    Reply
  59. Courtney Priest

    December 29, 2021 at 8:45 pm

    What a great resource to hand out to families!

    Reply
  60. Jayla

    December 29, 2021 at 8:42 pm

    While I plan to start online then eventually get into local preschool. This is good to know even now while I work in a daycare to prepare for the next step in my journey.

    Reply
  61. Jennifer Brooks

    December 29, 2021 at 8:32 pm

    This is a great list of common childhood illnesses often seen in care or at home. I really appreciate the clear pictures and the specific descriptions, along with exclusion data. Thanks!

    Reply
  62. Steph Gonzalez

    December 29, 2021 at 8:25 pm

    Great information! I actually did not know all the symptoms to look for in some of these diseases. Super helpful information here. Thank you!

    Reply
  63. Denyse Martinez

    December 29, 2021 at 8:20 pm

    Love this list. I’m familiar with it from having done daycare. I think this would be a valuable tool to have in a preschool student handbook. This way it alleviates any surprises if a child needs to go home, to prevent the spread of communicable disease. By having parents sign the handbook, with this information, they will have acknowledged that they have read & understood the policy.
    In January, I do a bulletin board, “Ring In The New Year, With Healthy Habits.”. We focus on healthy habits, such as covering our cough, washing our hands & the importance of eating healthy, & staying home if they are sick.

    Reply
  64. Linda Kutner

    December 29, 2021 at 8:09 pm

    Thank you for this very informative list! It’s so important to contain illnesses quickly and have a protocol in place for what to do when a child gets sick!

    Reply
  65. Charon Davis

    December 29, 2021 at 7:57 pm

    Very informative! Most of these I was aware of, but to have a visualization is key!

    Reply
  66. Alice Harrell

    December 29, 2021 at 7:40 pm

    We have a Communicable disease chart on the walls in each classroom but this list is really great. I love the Parent tips. I will be sharing this with all my parents.

    Reply
  67. Alejandra

    December 29, 2021 at 7:21 pm

    Another great resource for parents and teachers alike.

    Reply
  68. Ashley Gilbreath

    December 29, 2021 at 7:18 pm

    A great resource that compiles many common and uncommon illnesses our kiddos face!

    Reply
  69. Karen James-Wilson

    December 29, 2021 at 6:56 pm

    This is great to know as a parent and as a teacher, because some of these I was not even aware of! Thank you for the visuals and descriptions! What I like most is that you also provided treatment and tips that can be used by both parents to use at home and preschool owners to use at the school.

    Reply
  70. Jen

    December 29, 2021 at 6:44 pm

    Great list! The pictures are really helpful. My son had hand foot and mouth and we ALL got it, its so contagious!

    Reply
  71. Brittany Hutt

    December 29, 2021 at 6:25 pm

    I’ve been teaching 13 years and have yet to encounter some of these. This was very informative! Thank you!

    Reply
  72. Jill Dahm

    December 29, 2021 at 5:59 pm

    Thanks for compiling this comprehensive list! The information and the pictures are very helpful! I’m definitely keeping information close at hand!

    Reply
  73. Mireddy Benet

    December 29, 2021 at 5:24 pm

    I wish every parents knows and follows this list, it would decrease so many sick days for everyone.

    Reply
  74. Sue Koxlien

    December 29, 2021 at 5:08 pm

    The visuals are helpful! Thanks!

    Reply
  75. Brittany Klabunde

    December 29, 2021 at 4:18 pm

    Wow, there were more than I knew about, very helpful to have the visual photos and a description for each!

    Reply
  76. Eugina Fails

    December 29, 2021 at 4:17 pm

    Very informative! 2 of these I have never heard of before!

    Reply
  77. Hannah Reid

    December 29, 2021 at 4:01 pm

    This is so important, and I love how comprehensively you’ve laid it out! Hand washing has been huge this year because of COVID being on the forefront of everyone’s minds, but it’s important to remember that there are other illnesses we should be thinking about/on the lookout for too.

    Reply
  78. Heather

    December 29, 2021 at 3:58 pm

    Great to be made aware of these, and how important it is to teach children to wash hands on a regular basis, starting at home.

    Reply
  79. Anita Biechler

    December 29, 2021 at 3:46 pm

    ALWAYS important to have because kids need the most help with staying clean and healthy

    Reply
  80. Latoya

    December 29, 2021 at 1:41 pm

    What a great resource to have for both parents and preschool teachers. I love the idea of having a visual that showcases what to look for as well as symptoms. Providing actions plans that parents and teachers can implement to help the child/student helps to alleviate anxiety.

    Reply
  81. Kendra

    December 29, 2021 at 4:45 am

    One of the most stressful parts of parenting, and working with kids, is when they are sick! It can be hard to know what’s going on with them and how to best help them. This is a great resource, it really makes it easy to check the most common illnesses all in one place.

    Reply
  82. Susan Pelofske

    December 29, 2021 at 1:54 am

    Wow! Very helpful to have everything here! A little scary thinking about all of these, but great to have at your fingertips.

    Reply
  83. Eilleen de Guzman

    December 28, 2021 at 10:55 pm

    These are great visual symptoms to look for and thank you for providing treatment. I will use this to look at my child if something ever pops up.

    Reply
  84. Kia Gray

    December 28, 2021 at 10:08 pm

    As a preschool teacher I feel like this is very important to address to parents so they can be aware. This very helpful and I feel that it need to be place somewhere around centers or pass out flyers about this.

    Reply
  85. Karisa Day

    December 28, 2021 at 9:12 pm

    This would be a great resource to have printed on the bulletin board as well. Can be a quick reference for teachers and parents. Thanks for all of the info about incubation, contagious, symptoms etc. I didn’t know some of these!

    Reply
  86. Nikida Norman

    December 28, 2021 at 8:35 pm

    Currently, we are online with my preschool. I like to keep abreast of these things for my own family, to know what to do when I do open my local classroom, and know what going on around us in our community. Very helpful and easy to understand the different illness and how to deal with each the best!

    Reply
  87. Richae

    December 28, 2021 at 8:20 pm

    We cannot forget about illnesses! As teachers, directors and parents we need to be in a position to protect our babies (or future), this site helps arm us with the knowledge we need.

    Reply
  88. Nur Billur Tosun

    December 28, 2021 at 7:49 pm

    Very informative, I think every parent , teacher and owner can get great ideas about how a disease looks like from this page and get an idea of it .

    Reply
    • Jessica

      December 29, 2021 at 3:23 pm

      Great comprehensive list of dieases to look out for to keep rest of kids healthy. It is easy way to read and to be able to just print and put in binder if needed.

      Reply
  89. Madiha Siddiqui

    December 28, 2021 at 7:46 pm

    OMG, you thought of everything! It is so important to have this information together for parents as teachers and directors. I love the visuals as well. Thank you for making our lives as business owners so much easier!

    Reply
  90. Judith Bical Morano

    December 28, 2021 at 3:28 pm

    It’s very helpful..hope that our pupils will not get infected of this different illness/ contagious diseases,.even if we’re teachers we really don’t know that it would happen in our preschoolers but atleast and for sure we can help them overcome because of the big Helton this site..So informative..

    Reply
    • Judith Bical Morano

      December 28, 2021 at 3:29 pm

      Big help of this site, rather..

      Reply
  91. Marilyn S. Galicia

    December 28, 2021 at 6:16 am

    Very helpful and informative aside from being visual… even kids could help observe within himself/herself and classmates by simply looking at the pictures.

    Reply
  92. Amanda Lindsay

    December 28, 2021 at 4:07 am

    Wow!! Helpful to directors, teachers, and parents.

    Reply
    • Jessica Hunt

      December 29, 2021 at 3:11 pm

      What a great list for informing and reference

      Reply
  93. Jennifer Satterwhite

    December 28, 2021 at 3:43 am

    Great information to use for teachers and parents when symptoms arise. This resource is helpful to me.

    Reply
  94. Monique Reycasa

    December 28, 2021 at 3:20 am

    With all these well-known diseases and illnesses that are most common in preschool or daycare settings this is a great guide to have printed out for staff when we do our well-checks every morning upon arrival. This is also great for parents especially first time parents whom have not yet experienced any of these. Thank you so much for this guide! Sanitizing is key and hand washing practices. But this will definitely help!

    Reply
  95. LaShonda

    December 28, 2021 at 3:20 am

    Great resources for anyone working with or around children. The visuals are amazing, leaves no room for confusion on anyone part. Very helpful

    Reply
  96. Lisa

    December 28, 2021 at 2:58 am

    This is great information to know when considering preschool or daycare.

    Reply
  97. Vivian

    December 28, 2021 at 12:58 am

    This is super helpful to both parents and teachers.

    Reply
  98. Jen

    December 27, 2021 at 5:59 pm

    This is helpful not only for the preschools, but for the parents. We aren’t the doctors, we are the teachers and parents, so we don’t naturally know these things. The pictures make it even more helpful.

    Reply
  99. Monique Moreno

    December 27, 2021 at 2:27 pm

    While I hope none of our kiddos catch these it’s great to know what to look for. I love the visuals they help me to know what I am looking for.

    Reply
  100. Angel Sarmiento

    December 27, 2021 at 1:11 pm

    Very informative with good visuals. This is very important for preschool owners to know. I learned a lot!

    Reply
    • Vania

      December 29, 2021 at 4:03 pm

      Handy practical information clearly laid out. Very informative and useful! Thank you

      Reply
  101. Jalissa Michelle

    December 27, 2021 at 7:47 am

    Wow! I really like that all of this information is compiled together for me. This is so helpful especially in the middle of a pandemic.

    Reply
    • Angel

      December 29, 2021 at 5:11 pm

      Thank you for putting this together. It can be daunting dealing with all the germs that come with going to school.

      Reply
  102. Catrina Mathews

    December 27, 2021 at 5:32 am

    Useful information for all in person preschools!

    Reply
  103. Earline M. SAWICKI

    December 27, 2021 at 4:22 am

    Listing common diseases (such as lice) accompanied by a photo is so beneficial.
    And the same holds true with uncommon diseases such as Fifth disease.
    Knowing what causes these common and uncommon diseases, and how to protect ourselves, other kiddos is a huge plus!

    Reply
  104. Eboni Griffith

    December 27, 2021 at 4:21 am

    Great place to quickly get the information I need as a preschool owner

    Reply
    • April

      December 27, 2021 at 12:30 pm

      Never knew there were so many!

      Reply
  105. Opeyemi

    December 27, 2021 at 4:02 am

    This is so helpful. I love that all these are in one place. This is a great for parents and teachers.

    Reply
  106. Sammy Bohannon

    December 27, 2021 at 3:48 am

    This is very helpful as a preschool director and a mom of preschoolers to be aware of the most common illnesses in this age group and have valuable information about each illness.

    Reply
  107. Samico Chilton

    December 27, 2021 at 1:57 am

    All these resources just blow my mind. It is wonderful to have someone who cares so much about helping others succeed just as she has is a blessing. Joy Anderson and team thank you for all you do! Although a lot of these diseases I’m not familiar with.

    Reply
  108. Bertha Rivero

    December 27, 2021 at 1:38 am

    Great visuals! This easy to read and important details that sometimes we as parents or teachers miss watching out for are super helpful. Love how this information was written; simple out- line. I would make copies of these very important contagious diseases. Awesome job!

    Reply
  109. Zena

    December 27, 2021 at 12:57 am

    Yesss, these are very important to know. Some of these infections I never heard of. Wow, another great resource.

    Reply
  110. Carrie Cook

    December 26, 2021 at 8:59 pm

    I didn’t know about some of these! Valuable information for a preschool owner!

    Reply
  111. Angela

    December 26, 2021 at 8:40 pm

    WOW! As a new preschool owner, this resource is so valuable! Love the visuals this helps parents, teachers, preschool owners and daycare owners stay on the same page! What a great resource to use as a quick reference guide! When your child is sick who wants to search the internet for resources? I know I don’t. Thanks

    Reply
  112. Brenda Morgan

    December 26, 2021 at 7:31 pm

    What a great resource for parents and teachers alike. As a teacher, I often wondered what the protocol was for different symptoms, etc. I always depended on the nurse to tell us what to do but this resource allows a teacher to make more informed decisions when the occasion arises.

    Reply
  113. Joy

    December 26, 2021 at 7:30 pm

    A topic that many don’t want to discuss but is essential to know what opening a preschool. This resource is so helpful for the information and prevention of many of these common things you will run into when working with young children.

    Reply
  114. Pamela

    December 26, 2021 at 6:30 pm

    Wash hands, sanitize everything!!
    Best advice… after 30 yrs in this field. If kids are ill, keep home!!
    #giveawayentry

    Reply
  115. Heather

    December 26, 2021 at 6:19 pm

    Wow! Great resource! Sent it to a few child care provider friends who are always looking for helpful advice to send to parents. While obviously not doctors, it’s helpful for us teachers to be able to refer parents to a list like this! Awesome!

    Reply
  116. Nicky Cook

    December 26, 2021 at 6:10 pm

    As a preschool teacher I see this as an extensive list of all the contagions that teachers are constantly on the lookout for. This is a great resource to help understand how to stop the spread of infectious diseases.

    Reply
  117. Valerie David

    December 26, 2021 at 5:53 pm

    This is a great resource. I always want to point parents in the right direction about these but with everything out there, I sometimes get confused of what is the truth. This an amazing resource for this.

    Reply
  118. Sharonda Gray

    December 26, 2021 at 5:45 pm

    I’m truly blown away by how much information is available to anyone who needs resources on how to get started in preschool all on one site.

    Reply
  119. Susan Drexel

    December 26, 2021 at 5:41 pm

    Fantastic to have this information all together and available for parents, teachers and schools to get to when needed. Instead of having to search multiple sites or go through thick books to look up symptoms and contagious periods. Fantastic idea to add this to your website!

    Reply
    • Rehanna Allen

      January 1, 2022 at 12:14 am

      This was extremely useful information. I won’t have to search on how to take care of these illnesses. I will also have this information at my fingertips to share with parents. Wow, I can’t believe how much useful information I am getting today.

      Reply
  120. Morgan Carlson

    December 26, 2021 at 5:02 pm

    Really great resource and information!

    Reply
    • Catherine Parks

      December 27, 2021 at 5:37 am

      Great visuals this easy to read and important details that sometimes we as parents or teachers miss watching out for are super helpful love how this information was written; simple out- line❤️ I love this it’s so easy and simple.

      Reply
      • Beki

        December 29, 2021 at 3:13 pm

        Such a handy list–I love having the symptoms so nearly organized.

        Reply

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