Infectious disease pediatricians are doctors who specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of infectious diseases in children. Some common disorders that they may treat include:
- Respiratory infections. These include common cold, flu, pneumonia, bronchiolitis, and other infections that affect the respiratory system.
- Gastrointestinal infections. These include infections such as gastroenteritis, which can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
- Skin and soft tissue infections. These include impetigo, cellulitis, and other infections that affect the skin and underlying tissues.
- Central nervous system infections. These include meningitis, encephalitis, and other infections that affect the brain and spinal cord.
- Sexually transmitted infections. These include infections such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, and syphilis that are transmitted through sexual contact.
- Bloodstream infections. These include infections such as sepsis, bacteremia, and fungemia that affect the bloodstream and can cause serious health problems.
- Viral infections. These include infections such as measles, rubella, chickenpox, and others that are caused by viruses.
- Parasitic infections. These include infections such as malaria, giardiasis, and others that are caused by parasites.
Infectious disease pediatricians also work to prevent the spread of infectious diseases by educating patients and families about hygiene, vaccination, and other preventive measures. They may also provide consultation for children with complex infections or those with underlying medical conditions that increase their risk for infections.