Pharmacist 'be vigilant' call - 3 signs of highly contagious disease before rash
News September 07, 2025

Pharmacist 'be vigilant' call - 3 signs of highly contagious disease before rash

Parents are being urged to 'be vigilant' as youngsters return to nurseries and schools

**Pharmacist Urges Vigilance as Children Return to School Amid Contagious Disease Concerns**

As children across the region head back to nurseries and schools after the summer break, local pharmacists are urging parents to be especially vigilant for early signs of a highly contagious disease. While the specific illness wasn't named, the call for increased awareness underscores the importance of early detection in preventing widespread outbreaks, particularly amongst young children.

Pharmacists are emphasizing that parents should familiarize themselves with symptoms that may appear *before* the characteristic rash develops, making early diagnosis challenging. They highlight three key signs to watch out for: unexplained fever, persistent cough, and unusual fatigue or lethargy. These symptoms, while common in many childhood illnesses, should be carefully monitored, especially if a child has been in contact with other children at school or nursery.

"Early detection is crucial," explains Sarah Miller, a local pharmacist at Community Pharmacy. "Recognizing these initial symptoms before the rash appears allows parents to seek medical advice promptly. This can help reduce the severity of the illness and, more importantly, prevent further spread to other children and vulnerable individuals."

The return to school often brings an increase in common childhood illnesses, but this particular call for vigilance suggests a heightened concern about a disease with potentially significant impact. The contagious nature of the illness makes nurseries and schools, where close contact is unavoidable, particularly susceptible to rapid transmission.

Pharmacists are advising parents to keep children home from school or nursery if they exhibit any of the mentioned symptoms. They also recommend consulting with a healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Maintaining good hygiene practices, such as frequent handwashing and covering coughs and sneezes, remains essential in preventing the spread of any infectious disease.

The advice serves as a timely reminder for parents to prioritize their children's health and to be proactive in monitoring for potential signs of illness, especially as they re-enter environments where contagious diseases can spread quickly. Staying informed and acting swiftly are key to safeguarding the health of our children and the wider community.
Category: Politics