Head lice icon-14
Each year millions of school-aged children in the USA get head lice. Head lice are tiny crawling insects which live and multiply in human hair. Lice are very contagious, very irritating and sometimes very tough to get rid of. Head lice are most common in preschool and elementary school-aged children. It is common for lice to spread in schools, and a school nurse might even check kids individually if there is a known lice outbreak.
Head lice are also known to spread on shared items. Children should not share brushes, hats or helmets with other kids at school or during activities. If you detect lice in any of your host children, you should notify your host parents immediately.
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Flu (Influenza) icon-14
The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by a virus. It affects all age groups but kids tend to get it more often. The flu is often confused with a cold because it can come on suddenly. The flu may include more severe symptoms like high fever, headache, extreme tiredness, dry cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose. Muscle aches and stomach symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea can also occur.
Your host parents might ask you to get a seasonal ‘flu shot’ which is offered in most pharmacies.
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Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease icon-14
Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a common and highly contagious viral infection most often affecting children under 10. The name comes from the rash that presents on hands, feet, and mouth.
Do not confuse this with foot-and-mouth or hoof-and-mouth.
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Impetigo icon-14
Impetigo is a skin infection caused by bacteria. Although not life threatening, impetigo is very contagious and does keep children out of school. The infection begins as little red spots on the hands and legs which cause mild itching.
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