Common Summer Illnesses in Children and How to Prevent Them

Summer is a time for splashing in pools, family barbecues, and long afternoons outdoors. But with the fun also comes an increase in seasonal health issues that can affect children. From sunburns to swimmer’s ear, several common summer illnesses tend to spike when the temperatures rise.

At Pediatric Health Partners, we want your family to enjoy summer safely. This guide covers four common warm-weather ailments in kids- swimmer’s ear, heat rash, sunburn, and food poisoning—along with practical prevention tips so you can focus on making memories, not urgent care visits.

1. Swimmer’s Ear (Otitis Externa)

What it is: Swimmer’s ear is an infection of the outer ear canal, often caused by water remaining in the ear after swimming. This moisture creates a perfect environment for bacteria or fungi to grow. It’s common in children who spend lots of time in pools, lakes, or oceans.

Symptoms to watch for:

• Ear pain (especially when touching or tugging the ear)

• Itchiness inside the ear

• Redness or swelling

• Drainage of clear or pus-like fluid

• Muffled hearing

Prevention tips:

• Dry ears thoroughly after swimming or bathing. Tilt the head to each side to let water drain, and gently dry with a towel.

• Use ear drops (with your pediatrician’s approval) to help dry the ear canal after swimming.

• Avoid inserting objects like cotton swabs into the ear canal, which can irritate the skin and introduce bacteria.

• For frequent swimmers, consider well-fitting swim earplugs or a swim cap to keep water out.

If your child shows symptoms, see a healthcare provider. Most cases are treated with prescription ear drops and improve quickly with care.

2. Heat Rash (Prickly Heat)

What it is: Heat rash, also known as prickly heat or miliaria, occurs when sweat ducts become clogged and trap sweat under the skin. It causes small red or pink bumps, and can be itchy or uncomfortable.

Common areas: Neck, shoulders, chest, armpits, elbow creases, and diaper area.

Prevention tips:

• Dress your child in lightweight, breathable clothing. Cotton fabrics are best.

• Keep skin dry by changing sweaty clothes often.

• Avoid overdressing or excessive swaddling (especially in babies).

• Stay in cool, shaded, or air-conditioned areas during peak heat hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

• Apply a cool compress and let the skin air out if a rash starts to appear.

In most cases, heat rash goes away on its own when the skin cools down. If the rash worsens, becomes painful, or develops pus, it’s time to consult your pediatrician.

3. Sunburn

What it is: Sunburn is skin damage from excessive ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure. Children’s skin is especially sensitive, and even a mild sunburn increases the risk of long-term skin damage and skin cancer later in life.

Symptoms to watch for:

• Red, warm, and painful skin

• Blistering in severe cases

• Fatigue, fever, or chills (signs of sun poisoning)

Prevention tips:

• Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, even on cloudy days. Reapply every 2 hours and after swimming or sweating.

• For babies under 6 months, keep them out of direct sunlight and dress them in lightweight long sleeves and wide-brimmed hats.

• Seek shade whenever possible, especially during mid-day.

• Dress older children in sun-protective clothing (UPF-rated fabrics), wide hats, and sunglasses.

• Set a timer to remind yourself to reapply sunscreen and encourage breaks from sun exposure.

If your child does get a sunburn, apply cool compresses, aloe vera gel, and ensure they stay hydrated. Avoid popping any blisters. Call your doctor if sunburn covers a large area or is accompanied by fever or chills.

For more sunscreen tips by age group, the American Academy of Dermatology offers a great resource.

4. Food Poisoning

What it is: Summer cookouts, picnics, and lunchboxes can become breeding grounds for bacteria like Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria, especially when food is left out in warm temperatures for too long. Young children are more vulnerable to complications from foodborne illness.

Symptoms of food poisoning in kids:

• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

• Stomach cramps

• Fever

• Dehydration (dry mouth, fewer wet diapers, lethargy)

Prevention tips:

• Keep cold food cold (below 40°F) and hot food hot (above 140°F).

• Use insulated coolers with ice packs for picnics or camp lunches.

• Wash hands thoroughly before eating or preparing food.

• Avoid raw or undercooked meats, eggs, and seafood.

• Don’t let perishable foods sit out for more than 1–2 hours (less if it’s over 90°F outside).

• Teach kids not to share water bottles or utensils, especially at camp or sports practices.

If your child shows signs of dehydration or illness that lasts more than 24–48 hours, consult your pediatrician. For safe food-handling tips, visit foodsafety.gov.

General Summer Wellness Tips

Alongside avoiding the four illnesses above, here are a few habits to keep your child feeling their best all summer:

• Stay hydrated: Offer water frequently, especially during outdoor play.

• Practice good hygiene: Handwashing after the playground or public spaces prevents the spread of germs.

• Plan downtime: Summer is meant to be fun—but enough rest, sleep, and quiet time are essential for immunity and mood.

• Keep a summer first-aid kit handy: Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, bug spray, and children’s fever medication just in case.

When to Call the Doctor

Always contact your pediatrician if:

• A rash spreads, worsens, or is painful

• Your child has a fever with no known cause

• Vomiting or diarrhea continues beyond 24 hours

• Your child shows signs of dehydration

• There’s ear pain, discharge, or hearing issues

• A sunburn blisters or involves large body areas

We’re here to help you navigate both everyday questions and urgent concerns, just a phone call away: 972-355-7900.

Summer should be filled with laughter, exploration, and connection, not time spent nursing ear infections or heat rash. By staying aware of the most common summer illnesses in children and practicing a few simple preventive steps, you’ll give your kids the best chance at a happy, healthy season.

Still have questions or need personalized advice? Schedule a summer wellness visit with Dr. Kim Bookout today. We’re happy to help your family make the most of every sunny moment.