Infection figures
High infection levels in children, during a cold, and what is considered normal
Infection levels are measured in white blood cells (leukocytes), and these cells play a crucial role in the body’s immune system. Among other things, they help fight infections by attacking bacteria, viruses and other pathogens. Understanding these values can provide important indications of the body’s state of health, especially in children and during illness periods such as a cold.
High infection rates in children
In children, infection levels can vary widely and are often higher than in adults. This is because their immune system is still developing and reacts strongly to infections. A high infection level in a child may be a sign of an infection, but it is important to consult a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Infection levels during a common cold
During a common cold, infection markers can rise as the body fights the viral infection. This is a normal part of the immune response. Although elevated infection markers can indicate an active fight against an infection, they are not always a direct measure of how severe the illness is.
Scale for infection levels
The infection scale measures the level of C-reactive protein (CRP) in the blood, which is a marker of inflammation and infection in the body. CRP levels are measured in mg/L and can indicate how severe a potential infection or inflammatory condition is. The normal range for CRP is typically below 5 mg/L, which indicates low or no inflammation. Higher CRP levels may signal an active infection or inflammatory condition and should in some cases be investigated further.
CRP typically rises more in bacterial infections than in infections such as viruses. CRP can also be used to monitor the course of an inflammatory condition, including after the start of treatment.
With an Infection Marker Test, you can easily and quickly measure your CRP level at home. The test gives a direct indication of the infection marker and can be a practical way to monitor symptoms and gain an early insight into infection levels.
| CRP level (mg/L) | Infection markers | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| <10 mg/L | 0 – Normal | Indicates no or minimal inflammation. Typical level in healthy individuals. |
| 10–20 mg/L | 1 - Slightly elevated | May indicate mild inflammation or a minor viral infection. |
| 20–50 mg/L | 2 – Moderately elevated | Suggests a moderate infection or inflammation, which may require monitoring. |
| 50–300 mg/L | 3 – Severely elevated | Indicates a serious infection or significant inflammation. May require medical follow-up. Values above 50 usually mean that a bacterial infection is present, for example pneumonia. |
What is considered a normal infection level?
A normal infection level varies from person to person and can be influenced by many factors, including age and general health. A normal infection level for healthy people ranges from below 1 to 5.
FAQ
1. What does a high infection marker mean in my child?
A high infection marker can indicate an infection or an inflammatory condition. It is important to consult a doctor for correct diagnosis and treatment.
2. Can a common cold cause an increase in infection markers?
Yes, during a cold the body’s immune system may respond by increasing the number of white blood cells to fight the infection.
3. What is the normal range for infection markers?
For adults, the normal range is typically between 4,500 and 11,000 white blood cells per microliter of blood. For children, this number may be higher.
4. What should I do if my infection level is high?
It is important to seek advice from a healthcare professional who can assess your specific situation and guide you on any necessary examination or treatment.