Most Common Back-to-School Illnesses in Kids — and How to Treat Them

As children head back into classrooms and daycare, germs go right along with them! Here are the top four fall illnesses parents are likely to see — plus simple tips to keep your child comfortable and healthy.

Hand, Foot & Mouth Disease

A viral infection most common in toddlers and preschoolers. Symptoms include fever, sore throat, painful mouth sores, and blisters on hands and feet. It spreads easily through saliva and shared toys. Treatment is supportive: hydration, cool fluids, popsicles, and over-the-counter pain relievers. Most cases clear within 7–10 days.

Stomach Bugs (Rotavirus & Norovirus)

Fast-moving viruses that cause vomiting, stomach cramps, and dehydration. Rotavirus affects infants and toddlers (preventable by vaccine), while norovirus spreads across all age groups. Small, frequent sips of fluids are key. Watch for dehydration signs like dry mouth, few wet diapers/urination, and no tears.

Strep Throat

Common in school-age children. Presents as sore throat without a cough, with fever, headache, and stomachache. Requires a rapid strep test. If positive, antibiotics are prescribed. Kids should stay home until fever-free and on antibiotics for 24 hours.

The Common Cold

Runny nose, congestion, sore throat, low-grade fever, and lingering symptoms. Highly contagious. There’s no cure — management includes rest, fluids, humidifiers, nasal suctioning (for little ones), and time.

Learn how to keep your child healthy and when to call your healthcare provider. If you have more questions, the team at Poppins can help you figure out what’s going on, often saving you a trip to the pediatrician or urgent care.

Our Expert: Alyson Insull is a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner at Poppins. Throughout her 15 years at Duke Children’s and Boston Children’s Hospitals, Alyson has created healing connections with young patients. Her expertise in orthopedics, telemedicine and complex care, along with her DAISY Award, reflect her commitment to building trust with families

About Poppins: On-demand, certified parenting coaching and pediatric care for parents — from newborn to teen. They offer a coach, a medical team, and instant care when you need it with 24/7 medical support for times when the pediatrician’s office is too far, too busy, or closed. Their medical team has professional backgrounds in social work, early childhood education, or therapy – and can provide guidance for over-the-counter solutions and prescribe medication when medically appropriate. Find out more: heypoppins.com