Staying Healthy in Child Care - National Health and Medical ...

Erythema infectiosum, also called parvovirus or fifth disease
The symptoms of this disease are slapped cheek rash (red cheeks that look as though
they have been slapped) or arthritis. A pregnant woman who develops these
symptoms should discuss this with her doctor. Parvovirus causes miscarriage or stillbirths
in a small percentage of women infected during pregnancy. Malformations do
not appear to occur in babies who survive this infection in the mother.
Varicella (Chickenpox)
Most child care workers will probably have had chickenpox as a child and will not get
it again. Infection with chickenpox in the first three months of pregnancy may damage
the unborn child. Pregnant women who are exposed to chickenpox at any stage of the
pregnancy should see their doctor soon after exposure. The doctor will give varicella
zoster immunoglobulin (VZIG) if the woman does not have antibodies to varicella.
VZIG is an injection of antibodies against chickenpox.
Other hazards in the child care industry
Staff members in child care workplaces may be exposed to many other hazards
including:
Manual handling injuries
Lifting and carrying children and the equipment used in child care workplaces may
lead to manual handling injuries such as sprains and strains. The activities undertaken
by child care workers should be assessed and modified if possible to reduce repetitive
lifting and minimise the risk of injury.
Slippery surfaces
Floors and the surfaces of pathways, steps and ramps inside and outside child care
workplaces should be slip resistant, especially around wet areas such as bathrooms
and toilets. The risk of slips, trips and falls can also be reduced by good
housekeeping, keeping walkways clear of toys and other loose items and by ensuring
that spills are cleaned up promptly.
Electricity
In situations where portable items of electrical equipment, such as vacuum cleaners,
electric frypans, portable stereos and CD players are used, electric circuits should be
protected by Residual Current Devices (RCDs) to reduce the risk of electrocution.
Power cords and extension leads should be protected from damage by toys and
equipment, chemicals and heat. It is recommended that cords and leads are checked
for nicks, cuts and other damage on a regular basis and to immediately remove a
damaged item until it is properly repaired.
Children should not be left unsupervised in situations where they may cut electric
cords, spill water onto electric equipment or pull cords and leads out of power points.
Unused power points should be covered with blank plugs to ensure that children do
not poke small items into the empty holes.
Hand care
Some infections are spread when blood from an infected person comes into direct
contact through broken or abraded skin, therefore healthy skin can be a very effective
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