Loading

Skip to main content

Childhood illnesses

There are some common illnesses that affect tamariki (children). Find out about symptoms, self care, when to get help, and when your tamaiti (child) should stay at home.

KidsHealth

KidsHealth provides accurate and reliable information for New Zealand parents and whānau about the health and wellbeing of tamariki and rangatahi in Aotearoa.

Chickenpox

A highly contagious disease most common in tamariki that causes small itchy blisters on the skin.

Croup

A common viral infection that narrows the upper airways. It is more common in pēpi (babies) over 6 months old and young tamariki (children) under 3.

Hand, foot and mouth disease

A common viral infection. It causes mouth ulcers, and spots on the hands and feet. It mostly affects tamariki under 10.

Parents and caregivers

Guidance for parents and caregivers on illness, anxiety and school attendance.

Guidance for schools

This information helps school staff understand when it is okay for a child to still be at school, and when an unwell child should be at home.

Head lice (nits)

Head lice (nits) are very common. They are a nuisance but are not a risk to public health. Head lice are small insects that lay their eggs (nits) on strands of hair.

Impetigo

A common skin infection. Impetigo mostly affects tamariki. It spreads very easily through skin to skin contact.

Measles

Measles is a serious, highly contagious disease. It can cause brain swelling, chest infections, or death.

Mumps

A disease that spreads easily and can cause swelling in the glands around the face. For some people it can be serious and cause symptoms that last a long time.

Norovirus

A virus that causes gastroenteritis. It is very infectious.

Rotavirus

A viral infection that causes runny poos, vomiting and fever. It most often affects pēpi and tamariki and can be serious.

Rubella

A contagious viral infection that causes a spotty rash. Rubella is usually mild — but can cause problems if you are pregnant.

Scabies

Scabies is a skin condition caused by a parasitic mite (a living thing). Scabies usually produces a very itchy rash.

Slapped cheek

Slapped cheek is a viral infection caused by the parvovirus. It causes bright red cheeks and is most common in tamariki (children). Some adults can get slapped cheek.

Whooping cough

A long coughing illness that spreads easily between people. It can be very serious for pēpi, tamariki and older adults.