35 common illnesses children can get and what to do if they become seriously ill

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A child has tragically died at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital after contracting measles

Children are more susceptible to illness(Image: Getty Images)

As children grow and develop, they become exposed to many common illnesses. Children are more susceptible to illness due to several factors, including their still-developing immune systems, frequent exposure to new germs, and even a tendency to put their hands in their mouths.

The NHS says children have five to eight colds a year on average. This is because there are hundreds of different cold viruses and young children have no immunity to any of them as they have never had them before.

They gradually build up immunity and get fewer colds. Most colds in younger children get better within two weeks.

However, there are other, more serious illnesses that children can get. The health agency says: “If you are unsure if your child is seriously ill, you can call 111 or speak to your GP for advice. You know your child best.

“If you think your child is seriously unwell call 999 for an ambulance or go to your nearest A&E department. It can be harder to tell if your baby or toddler is seriously ill. Remember to trust your instincts.”

This month a child has tragically died at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital after contracting measles, marking the second death due to an acute measles infection in Britain this decade. The identity of the child has not been disclosed, but it is known that they were suffering from measles and are believed to have had other health complications.

This comes just days after parents described feeling “scared” as several children in Merseyside were hospitalised due to the spread of the measles virus. Hospital officials said these children were “seriously unwell.”

Measles is one of the most infectious diseases on the planet. One person with measles can infect up to 15 other people. If you’re unvaccinated, you have a 90% chance of catching it from someone who is infected.

The NHS has listed illnesses and conditions that can be common in children. It can be a worrying time as a parent when your child gets sick. But, most minor childhood illnesses can be treated at home. And there is often a lot you can do at home to help your child feel better.

Common childhood illnesses

Asthma: Asthma is a lung condition that often starts in childhood. There are lots of simple treatments to help keep your child’s symptoms under control.

Bronchiolitis: Common chest infection which is usually caused by a virus. It affects babies and children under 2 and can make it more difficult for them to breathe.

Burns: Burns are usually caused by heat and often cause damage to the skin. They can be very painful, but not always.

Chickenpox: Chickenpox is an infectious disease caused by a virus. It is very itchy and painful and can spread quickly. It usually gets better by itself.

Colic: Colic is a common problem in babies and is when they cry a lot for no reason. It usually stops when they are 3 or 4 months old.

Constipation: Constipation is the most common bowel problem in children. It is the inability to do a poo regularly or to completely empty the bowel.

Other illnesses include: