Infectious diseases are illnesses caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites. These diseases can be passed from person to person, transmitted through insect bites, or contracted through contaminated food, water, or surfaces. In pediatrics, infectious diseases are especially critical to monitor and treat because children’s immune systems are still developing—making early detection and expert care essential.
A Brief History of Pediatric Infectious Disease
Pediatric infectious disease as a specialized medical field began taking shape in the mid-20th century, as advances in immunology and antibiotics gave physicians the tools to better understand, treat, and prevent serious illnesses in children. In 1960, the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society (PIDS) was founded to advance the science and clinical care of infectious diseases in children. The field has since grown significantly, encompassing not just treatment, but public health efforts, vaccine development, and disease surveillance.
Common Pediatric Infectious Diseases
Understanding the scope of infectious diseases in children can help parents know what to look for—and when to seek specialized care. Below are some of the most frequently encountered pediatric infectious diseases, along with what they are and how they impact young patients:
- Respiratory Infections (RSV, pneumonia, influenza, COVID-19)
These infections affect the lungs, airways, and sinuses. RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) is a common cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia in infants and young children. Influenza and COVID-19 are viral infections that can range from mild to severe, often leading to fever, cough, and breathing difficulties. Pneumonia can be caused by viruses or bacteria and may require antibiotics or hospitalization, particularly in younger children. - Ear Infections (Otitis Media and Otitis Externa)
Otitis media (middle ear infection) is often linked to upper respiratory infections and can cause ear pain, fever, and irritability. Otitis externa, or “swimmer’s ear,” affects the outer ear canal and is typically caused by bacteria from water exposure. Both types of infections are common in children and often respond well to treatment, though recurrent cases may require further evaluation. - Strep Throat and Tonsillitis
Strep throat is a bacterial infection caused by Streptococcus pyogenes, leading to a sore throat, fever, and swollen tonsils. It is most common in school-aged children. Tonsillitis refers to inflammation of the tonsils, which can be caused by viruses or bacteria. Prompt treatment is important to prevent complications like rheumatic fever. - Gastroenteritis (Viral or Bacterial)
Gastroenteritis, often referred to as the “stomach flu,” causes diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and abdominal pain. It can be viral (e.g., norovirus, rotavirus) or bacterial (e.g., Salmonella, E. coli). Dehydration is a primary concern in young children, making fluid replacement and monitoring crucial. - Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease
Caused by coxsackievirus, this illness leads to fever, sore throat, and a characteristic rash or blisters on the hands, feet, and inside the mouth. It’s highly contagious but usually mild, resolving within a week. It’s most common in children under 5 years old. - Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
UTIs occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract, often presenting with fever, abdominal pain, frequent urination, or changes in urine odor. In infants and toddlers, symptoms can be nonspecific. Prompt treatment is essential to avoid complications like kidney infection (pyelonephritis). - Kawasaki Disease
A rare but serious inflammatory condition that affects blood vessels throughout the body, Kawasaki disease often causes prolonged fever, rash, red eyes, and swollen lymph nodes. It can lead to coronary artery complications if not treated early—usually with IVIG (intravenous immunoglobulin) and aspirin therapy. - PFAPA Syndrome (Periodic Fever, Aphthous Stomatitis, Pharyngitis, Adenitis)
PFAPA is a non-infectious periodic fever syndrome typically seen in young children. Episodes occur regularly and involve high fevers, mouth ulcers, sore throat, and swollen lymph nodes. Though not infectious, it’s often mistaken for recurrent infections and may benefit from evaluation by a specialist. - Bone and Joint Infections
These include osteomyelitis (bone infection) and septic arthritis (joint infection), typically caused by bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus. Symptoms can include localized pain, swelling, fever, and difficulty using the affected limb. These infections require urgent medical evaluation and often hospitalization with IV antibiotics. - Vaccine-Preventable Diseases (Measles, Mumps, Rubella, Chickenpox, Pertussis, etc.)
These diseases were once common but are now rare in vaccinated populations. Measles and mumps are highly contagious viral illnesses with serious complications. Rubella can cause birth defects if contracted during pregnancy. Chickenpox causes an itchy blister-like rash, and pertussis (whooping cough) can cause severe respiratory illness in infants. Vaccination is the best defense against these preventable threats.
The Legacy of Dr. Steven Shore
Dr. Steven Shore is one of the most respected pediatric infectious disease specialists in the country, with decades of experience evaluating and treating some of the most complex and persistent pediatric infections. He has personally overseen thousands of cases of Kawasaki disease and bone/joint infections, earning a national reputation for his expertise and clinical judgment.
As a former leader in pediatric infectious diseases at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta (CHOA), Dr. Shore has been instrumental in establishing diagnostic protocols, participating in research initiatives, and mentoring future pediatric specialists. His work continues to shape the way physicians identify and manage recurrent fevers, unusual infections, and complicated post-viral syndromes.
Families from all over Georgia and beyond have sought his opinion when traditional routes fail to yield answers—especially in cases of lingering infections or illnesses that evade initial diagnosis.
Progress and Challenges in the Field
Thanks to vaccine development, hygiene education, and antibiotic stewardship, many pediatric infectious diseases that once carried high mortality rates are now rare or manageable. According to the CDC, childhood vaccinations prevent over 4 million deaths worldwide each year. Diseases like polio and measles have been virtually eliminated in parts of the world due to rigorous immunization efforts.
However, in recent years, progress has been threatened by a growing movement of vaccine hesitancy. Fueled by misinformation, fear, and discredited studies, the number of unvaccinated children in the U.S. has quadrupled since 2001, according to a 2023 CDC report. This has led to resurgences of measles and whooping cough, putting vulnerable populations—like infants and immunocompromised children—at serious risk.
Dr. Shore and pediatric infectious disease experts nationwide stress the importance of maintaining trust in science-backed prevention strategies, especially vaccination, which remains one of the most powerful tools in protecting children’s health.
When to Seek a Pediatric Infectious Disease Evaluation
You may be referred to a pediatric infectious disease specialist if your child:
- Has a prolonged or unexplained fever
- Experiences recurring infections
- Has a severe or rare infectious disease
- Is not responding to standard treatment
- Needs expert care for vaccine-preventable diseases
- Has been exposed to a condition that may require specialized prophylaxis or evaluation
At our practice, we are proud to offer consultations for new patients with Dr. Steven Shore, whose compassion, deep expertise, and trailblazing career continue to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children and their families. To schedule, call us at 404-252-4611.