Jaundice is the yellow tinge of the skin, sclera (whites of the eyes) and inside of the mouth that arises when the bilirubin level in the blood is higher than normal. While it is often referred to as “yellow jaundice”, the word jaundice in itself means yellow tinge. Jaundice is more often seen in newborn babies but can also occur in adults as a result of liver and blood disorders.
Diarrhoea, or “runny tummy”/”running stomach”, is frequent liquid stools or loose bowel movements which is one of the most common illnesses that affects all age groups. In most cases it resolves on its own without leading to any complications. However, in babies, toddlers and children, a parent has to be especially careful and guard against dehydration. This can rapidly set in with dangerous consequences and may even become life-threatening. In babies, sometimes the stool can be so liquid that it can be mistaken for urine.
Malaria is an infectious disease caused by a parasite that is transmitted via mosquitos. There are different types of malaria parasites but the most deadly type is commonly found in Africa. Not all mosquitos are malaria carriers but if you live in or are visiting a high risk area, you should take every precaution to prevent malaria infection. Malaria can kill you and there are strict guidelines governing prevention and treatment which should not be ignored.
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Chickenpox is one of the most common childhood viral infections and in most cases it is a mild disease. However complications arising from chickenpox can be quite severe and like other childhood diseases, it can be prevented with the proper vaccination. Chickenpox is highly contagious and affects most children within the first 10 years of life. In adults, the disease can be more severe but complications are usually rare aunless the person is immunocompromised like in HIV/AIDS patients.
The MMR vaccine is a 3-in-1 combination vaccine offering protection against measles, mumps and rubella (German measles). While only the measles vaccine is mandatory, many parents opt for the MMR vaccine for the added protection from mumps and rubella because both infections can cause serious complications. Unfortunately, the MMR vaccine has also received a lot of negative press because of supposed links to autism which is totally unfounded.
Rubella, which is commonly referred to as German measles, is a viral infection that is not seen as often as the other childhood infections like measles and chickenpox. Usually the symptoms are mild and may not be easily recognised. German measles infection only lasts for a few days so this can also be confusing to a parent. However the major risk with German measles is to pregnant women since this infection can cause birth defects.
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