An over-the-counter pain reliever — such as acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others) — can reduce a fever and ease the pain of a sore throat or headache. Remember, however, low-grade fevers don't need treatment. If you give your child a pain reliever, follow the dosing guidelines carefully. Don't give aspirin to anyone age 18 or younger.

2. Stomach flu (viral gastroenteritis)
Viral gastroenteritis typically develops after contact with an infected person or after eating or drinking contaminated food or water. Signs include vomiting and diarrhea.

There's no effective treatment for viral gastroenteritis. While the illness runs its course:

Don't give your child over-the-counter anti-diarrheal medications unless your child's doctor recommends it. These medications can make it harder for your child's body to eliminate the virus. If your child seems dehydrated — is excessively thirsty, complains of dry mouth, produces little or no urine, or seems severely weak or lethargic — contact the doctor right away.

3. Ear infection (otitis media)
Ear infections usually start with a viral infection, such as a cold. The middle ear becomes inflamed from the infection, and fluid builds up behind the eardrum. This fluid can become a breeding ground for viruses or bacteria. Your child may complain of ear pain, tug or pull at the affected ear, be unusually irritable or have trouble sleeping.

Most ear infections clear on their own in just a few days, and antibiotics won't help an infection caused by a virus. If your child is uncomfortable:

4. Pink eye (conjunctivitis)
Pink eye (conjunctivitis) is an inflammation or infection of the clear membrane that lines the eyelid and part of the eyeball. Pink eye is typically caused by a virus, often in association with a cold — although sometimes bacteria or allergies are to blame. When pink eye is caused by a virus or bacteria, it's highly contagious. You may notice redness and discharge in one or both of your child's eyes. Your child may complain of itchy eyes or blurred vision.

If your child has bacterial pink eye, the doctor may prescribe antibiotic eyedrops or ointment. Viral pink eye simply needs to run its course. Use warm or cool compresses on the eyes to ease your child's discomfort.

5. Sore throat
Most sore throats are caused by viruses. They're usually associated with other respiratory signs, such as a runny nose and cough. Most sore throats go away without treatment. To help your child feel better in the meantime:

If the sore throat lasts longer than a week, causes severe pain, or is accompanied by a fever or red and swollen tonsils, contact your child's doctor. Your child may have strep throat, a bacterial infection that's treated with antibiotics.

When to stay home, when to return to school or child care

Although the specific school or facility guidelines may vary, your child will probably need to stay home if he or she:

Generally, a child can return to school or child care when he or she:

Prevention for one and all

Common sense can go a long way toward preventing illness. Teach your child the basics:

As your child gets older, he or she will build an arsenal of antibodies to fight common viruses. Gradually your child will become less prone to common illnesses and recover more quickly from the illnesses he or she does catch.