Children are naturally exposed to a wide variety of viruses and bacteria as they grow and interact with others at daycare, in school, and on the playground. Often, they recover quickly from illnesses because their immune system is highly active and adaptable. Also, continual exposure to new pathogens can help build immunity and allow for a faster response to common infections.
Even so, some childhood illnesses may require medical attention to ensure proper recovery and help prevent complications. By learning about common pediatric conditions—and knowing when to seek care—you can make better-informed decisions about your child’s health.
At South Tampa Immediate Care, we offer convenient and compassionate pediatric urgent care services for children two and older in the Tampa, Florida, area. Our experienced team is here seven days a week to help your child feel better, faster, and provide you with valuable peace of mind.
Typical Childhood Health Issues
Most young children develop several minor health issues each year. Though usually not serious, these ailments can still cause discomfort for the child and worry for their parents. South Tampa Immediate Care evaluates and treats many common pediatric illnesses, including:
The Common Cold
Caused by a viral infection (usually a rhinovirus), the common cold is easily transmitted through respiratory droplets that become airborne whenever an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks. The infection can also be spread if an infected person touches a surface shared by others.
Cold symptoms can include a runny nose, cough, sore throat, and mild fever. While there is no cure, most colds clear up within a week or so. In the meantime, you should keep your child home from school, encourage them to rest, and offer fluids and over-the-counter, age-appropriate medications as needed to improve their comfort. Take your child to see a healthcare provider if they have difficulty breathing, develop a fever higher than 103°F, or have cold-related symptoms longer than 10 days.
Ear Infections
An ear infection occurs when a virus or bacteria enter the middle ear, usually after a respiratory illness. The wayward germ can cause inflammation and fluid buildup behind the eardrum, leading to pain and other symptoms. Children are especially prone to ear infections due to their relatively small, horizontal eustachian tubes, which normally allow fluid to drain from the ear and can easily become blocked.
In addition to an earache, an ear infection can cause irritability, trouble sleeping, and sometimes fever or drainage from the ear. A mild ear infection may improve on its own, but if the symptoms persist or worsen, it is best to seek professional medical attention. Prescription antibiotics may be needed to fully resolve a bacterial ear infection.
Strep Throat
Strep throat is a bacterial infection caused by group A Streptococcus. Like the viruses responsible for the common cold, this bacterium is readily transmitted from person to person through respiratory droplets.
In addition to a sore, scratchy throat, strep can cause fever and swollen lymph nodes. The infection is highly contagious and particularly common in school-aged children, mainly because it spreads easily in group settings like classrooms, where kids are in close contact and may share items or forget to practice good hygiene, such as regular handwashing. Unlike a typical sore throat that accompanies a cold, strep throat may require antibiotic treatment to reduce the symptoms and help prevent complications, such as kidney inflammation and rheumatic fever.
Influenza (Flu)
The flu is a respiratory illness caused by an influenza virus that infects the nose, throat, and lungs. Airborne transmission can occur whenever an infected individual releases virus particles by coughing, sneezing, or speaking.
Influenza can cause fever, body aches, chills, fatigue, and respiratory symptoms. Most children can recover at home, but you should seek medical care if your child develops a high fever, has difficulty breathing, or seems unusually tired or irritable.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
RSV is caused by a highly contagious virus that spreads through direct contact with infected surfaces or through respiratory particles from coughing or sneezing. The virus infects the respiratory system, leading to cold-like symptoms such as a runny nose, cough, and wheezing.
Respiratory syncytial virus can be particularly serious for infants and young children because their airways are small and easily obstructed, making it harder for them to breathe. Additionally, their immune system is not yet fully developed and may not be able to effectively fight off the infection. In severe cases, RSV can lead to bronchiolitis or pneumonia, which may require hospitalization. Prompt medical care is essential if your child is breathing rapidly, wheezing, or showing signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth, dark urine, or decreased urination.
Gastroenteritis (Stomach Flu)
Stomach flu is caused by a virus or bacteria that infects the gastrointestinal tract. Common culprits include norovirus, rotavirus, Salmonella, and E. coli. These pathogens can spread through contaminated food, water, or close contact with an infected person.
Gastroenteritis can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. Usually, the illness passes within a few days. The primary concern is dehydration, so it is important to encourage your child to sip water and other fluids often. Also, you should seek medical attention if their vomiting or diarrhea is severe or prolonged.
When to Visit Our Urgent Care Center
While many pediatric illnesses can be treated at home, certain symptoms may warrant a visit to South Tampa Immediate Care for further evaluation. Consider seeking medical care if your child:
- Develops a fever higher than 103°F
- Shows signs of dehydration, such as low urine output or no tears when crying
- Has difficulty breathing or persistent wheezing
- Experiences severe or prolonged vomiting or diarrhea
- Complains of ear pain or shows signs of an ear infection, such as difficulty hearing
- Appears extremely lethargic or irritable
- Has a sore throat that lasts more than a few days or is accompanied by a skin rash
In addition to non-emergency pediatric illnesses, the team at South Tampa Immediate Care can also provide timely treatment for minor injuries and other non-life-threatening health issues.
Convenient Pediatric Urgent Care in Tampa
At South Tampa Immediate Care, we are committed to supporting your child’s health every step of the way. Open daily with extended hours, our Board-certified and Board-eligible providers offer dependable, family-centered care—no appointment necessary. Stop by our walk-in clinic in Tampa, FL, at your convenience, or save even more time by entering our waiting room remotely.
