Viruses:
* Rhinoviruses: The most common cause of the common cold. Spread through respiratory droplets.
* Influenza (flu): Highly contagious virus that spreads through respiratory droplets.
* Norovirus: Highly contagious virus that causes vomiting and diarrhea. Spread through fecal-oral route.
* Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV): Commonly causes bronchiolitis, pneumonia, and croup in young children. Spread through respiratory droplets.
* Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD): Highly contagious viral infection that causes blisters on the hands, feet, and mouth. Spread through respiratory droplets and contact with infected sores.
* Chickenpox: Highly contagious viral infection that causes itchy rash and blisters. Spread through respiratory droplets and contact with infected sores.
* Measles: Highly contagious viral infection that causes fever, rash, cough, runny nose, and conjunctivitis. Spread through respiratory droplets.
* Mumps: Viral infection that causes swollen glands in the cheeks and neck. Spread through respiratory droplets.
* Rubella (German measles): Viral infection that causes mild rash, fever, and headache. Spread through respiratory droplets.
Bacteria:
* Staphylococcus aureus (Staph): Commonly causes skin infections like impetigo and boils. Can also cause more serious infections like pneumonia and sepsis. Spread through contact with infected skin or contaminated objects.
* Streptococcus pyogenes (Strep throat): Causes sore throat, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. Spread through respiratory droplets.
* Streptococcus pneumoniae (Pneumococcus): Can cause ear infections, pneumonia, meningitis, and bacteremia. Spread through respiratory droplets.
* Haemophilus influenzae: Can cause ear infections, pneumonia, meningitis, and epiglottitis. Spread through respiratory droplets.
* Escherichia coli (E. coli): Can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps. Spread through fecal-oral route.
Other:
* Head lice: Tiny insects that feed on human blood and live on the scalp. Spread through direct contact with an infected person or shared objects like hats, combs, and brushes.
* Scabies: Tiny mites that burrow into the skin and cause intense itching. Spread through skin-to-skin contact.
Preventing the Spread of Germs:
* Frequent handwashing: Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the restroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose.
* Use hand sanitizer: When soap and water aren't available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
* Cover coughs and sneezes: Use a tissue or cough or sneeze into your elbow.
* Stay home when sick: If you are sick, stay home from school and avoid close contact with others.
* Clean and disinfect surfaces: Regularly clean and disinfect surfaces that are frequently touched, such as doorknobs, desks, and toys.
* Vaccinations: Get vaccinated against preventable diseases, such as measles, mumps, rubella, influenza, and chickenpox.
It's important to remember that these are just some of the most common germs found in schools. There are many other germs that can cause illness. By practicing good hygiene and taking other preventative measures, you can help reduce the spread of germs and keep yourself and your family healthy.
