Reading, writing and runny noses. Kids are exposed to a slew of germs when they head back to school and they end up with all kinds of illnesses.    

"Coughs, colds, diarrhea illnesses, eye infections and sore throats or strep throat; those are the things you'll see most commonly in children now that they're back in school," said Dr. Robert Wiskind, a pediatrician.     
Dr. Wisking typically sees an increase in young patients about a month into the school year. He says most illnesses can be prevented by not sharing food and drinks and frequent hand washing.    
"Most colds are spread in a respiratory way from your secretions from your nose, from your mouth, that's why you want to teach your children to wash their hands," said Dr. Wiskind.  

Knowing when to keep your child home from school is an important part of preventing the spread of germs.    

"It's really a tough call and sometimes you really don't know if they're sick," said mom Chris Testani.

Doctors recommend waiting 12 to 24 hours until a fever is gone before sending a child back to school.  Waiting a day is also recommended if they're being treated with antibiotics for strep throat.  And, make sure the child is rested and alert enough to pay attention in class.