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Diseases

Child cleaning her nose with a tissue while sitting at a table in her classroom.Use these resources to learn about common diseases, such as the flu, colds, and COVID-19. Discover infection control strategies that can prevent the spread of disease in early childhood settings. Also learn about what to do if a child in your program is sick.

Pertussis (Whooping Cough)

Learn the facts about pertussis, how to prevent it, and what to do if someone in your program has it.

Infectious Diseases

Explore these resources to find information and tools that staff can use to reduce the risk of infection for children, families, and staff in Head Start programs.

Asthma

Asthma is a leading chronic illness among children in the United States. This resource can help you provide families with facts about asthma, including triggers and how to support children with asthma.

Influenza

Influenza, or “the flu," is a contagious disease that infects the nose, throat, and sometimes lungs. Learn more about the symptoms, how Head Start programs can address influenza, and proper hand-washing techniques.

Respiratory Syncytial Virus

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a respiratory tract infection that can cause severe illness. This resource helps staff learn more about RSV, which almost all children get at least once by the time they are 2.

Protect Your Child with Vaccines

Learn how vaccines can protect young children from 14 dangerous diseases. Get tips on talking with parents about infant vaccines.