Skin infections can happen for a number of reasons, whether viral, bacterial, or other. Infections among children are common, being a leading reason for your children’s doctor visits. Knowing the tips to prevent skin infection in children can save a lot of time, money, and discomfort.
Types of Skin Infections
Common bacterial infections among young children include staph infections, impetigo, cellulitis, carbuncles, and boils. Viral infection in children may include herpes simplex and warts. Athlete’s foot and ringworm are also somewhat common in young aged children, caused by fungi.
Wash The Skin
While children should always wash their hands and try to stay clean, it can be a challenging task. Make sure your child is washing their hands frequently, between activities and after interactions.
Children often touch surfaces and items without understanding the number of germs present. Encourage your child to clean their hands and teach them the importance of preventing the spread of germs. After washing the hands, use a paper towel to turn off the water instead of directly touching the faucet.
Keep a sanitizer around in case of no water and soap. Alcohol-based sanitizers work best, those with a 60% alcohol content or higher being best.
Avoid Other People’s Used Items
Whether you know the person or not, avoid touching unnecessary items that belong to others. Bandages, towels, and other sanitary items are especially important to avoid as these harbor bacteria. Potentially harmful possessions should always be avoided.
Avoid Touching the Face
As we all know, children have a tendency to put their hands on their face, mouth, and/or nose. This greatly increases the spread of germs and the risk of infection.
Every person has bacteria, including in parts of the face. This bacteria usually poses little to no threat, but if a child is contaminated, it can easily become an infection. Teach your children to avoid touching their faces as much as possible.
Keep Wounds Covered
Even if wounds are non-contagious, keep them securely covered. Not only can a wound cause harm to others, but it can also become infected quickly and even spread on the body.
Always try to keep wounds clean and sanitized before applying any bandages.
Keep Clothes and Towels Clean
A huge tip for preventing skin infections is simple – keep garments clean. Items like towels, sheets, and clothing can carry a high amount of bacteria, so keeping these clean can reduce the risk of infection greatly.
Avoid Using Shared Bodies of Water
Sharing pools, hot tubs, and baths can increase the risk of infection. If your child is swimming, be sure there are no open wounds on them and others.
If you notice an open cut, scrape, or wound, tell others and take necessary precautions to prevent infections from spreading to others. Sanitize and clean the wound immediately.
Overall, these tips to prevent skin infections should be used daily.
If you suspect your child may have a skin infection, consult one of our certified pediatricians for help and treatment!