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Overview RSV is a viral illness that causes symptoms such as trouble breathing. It’s the most common cause of inflammation of the small airways in the lungs (bronchiolitis) and pneumonia in babies. Causes RSV is spread when a child comes into contact with fluid from ...

Scarlet fever is an infectious disease that causes a rash. It’s also known as scarlatina. It is caused by the same kind of bacteria that cause strep throat. It may also be caused by infected wounds or burns. The rash is made up of tiny ...

Overview Diabetes is a condition in which the body can't make enough insulin, or can't use insulin normally. Insulin is a hormone. It helps sugar (glucose) in the blood get into cells of the body to be used as fuel. When glucose can’t enter the ...

Measles (rubeola) is a respiratory illness caused by a virus. It causes a red, blotchy rash. It is also known as 10-day measles or red measles. It’s a very contagious illness. ...

Overview Beta thalassemia is an inherited blood disorder. This means it is passed down through the parent’s genes. It is a form of anemia. Anemia is a low red blood cell or low hemoglobin level. Hemoglobin is part of red blood cells. It carries oxygen ...

A hernia is when a part of the intestine pushes through a weak spot in the belly (abdominal) muscles. The hernia creates a soft lump or bulge under the skin. ...

Overview Allergies are problems of the immune system. Most allergic reactions happen when the immune system reacts to a “false alarm.” Normally, the human body defends itself against harmful things, such as viruses or bacteria. But sometimes the defenses violently attack mostly mild things, such ...

Overview Chronic lung disease is the general term for long-term breathing problems in premature babies. It is also called bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). Causes Premature babies may need a breathing machine (ventilator) and extra oxygen to breathe. Chronic lung disease happens when a breathing machine or ...

Whooping cough (pertussis) is a contagious illness. It causes intense fits (paroxysms) of coughing and mainly affects babies and young children. The pertussis vaccine can help prevent the illness. ...

Anemia is a common health problem in children. The most common cause of anemia is not getting enough iron. A child who is anemic does not have enough red blood cells or enough hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is a protein that lets red blood cells carry oxygen ...