Pediatric Infectious Diseases

We offer prompt diagnosis and treatment for a wide variety of infections in children.
Pediatric Infectious Diseases

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Complete infectious disease care for children

Children have developing immune systems and are especially susceptible to infectious diseases. They may also develop more serious health complications than adults. At UCSF Benioff Children's Hospitals, our pediatric infectious disease specialists are experts in diagnosing and treating infections in kids of all ages, from babies to adolescents.

We deliver early, accurate diagnoses and timely care for children so they can feel better as quickly as possible. If severe health problems develop, young patients receive around-the-clock care in our neonatal or pediatric intensive care units. Parents can feel confident knowing their child is in expert hands.

Pediatric infectious diseases we treat

We care for challenging and rare bacterial, viral, fungal and parasitic infections. Our areas of expertise include:

  • Bone infections (osteomyelitis)

  • Fevers of unknown origin

  • HIV/AIDS

  • Respiratory infections and tuberculosis

  • Skin and soft tissue infections

  • Staph infections and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)

  • Surgical site infections

  • Travel-related infections

Our specialists also treat infections in children who have weakened immune systems due to:

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    Awards & achievements

    Recognized nationally for excellence, we pair world-class medical expertise with compassionate care to deliver the best possible outcomes for patients.
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    • U.S. News & World Report Best Children's Hospitals 2026-2027, ranked in 11 specialties

      Ranked among the nation's best in 11 specialties

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    Related conditions & treatments

    • Conditions
      • Fever of Unknown Origin
      • Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)
      • Infections (Bacterial and Viral)
      • Infections in Immunocompromised Children
      • Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus
      • Osteomyelitis
      • Staphylococcus Infections
      • Tuberculosis
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    Clinical trials

    Support services

    • Certified child life specialists ease the stress and anxiety of childhood illness through therapeutic play, schooling and family-focused support.
    • Family-friendly amenities help you relax and take care of yourself while staying close to your child. We offer lounges, kitchens, showers, breastfeeding rooms and more.
    • social-services-2x
      Social workers ease the effect of illness, injury and hospitalization on your family with counseling and assistance to help you navigate the challenges.
    • activity-rooms-2x
      Activity rooms offer a relaxed environment for children of all ages. Features include a playroom, digital arts studio and teen lounge. Find out more.
    • art-therapy-program-2x
      Art therapy helps kids and families express themselves, making it easier to cope with pediatric health issues. Group and bedside services are available.
    • music-program-2x
      Board-certified music therapists help kids cope with illness and the feelings that come with it. Find out about group activities and bedside therapy.
    • school-program-2x
      Our schoolroom services and individual learning programs help children hospitalized at UCSF continue their education and get ready to return to school.
    • school-re-entry-program-2x
      We help kids return to school after hospitalization by educating staff and students about their needs and recommending needed accommodations. Read more.
    • individual-playtime-and-tutoring-2x
      If your child can't be around other kids for medical reasons, you can sign up for private sessions in our activity and school rooms. Find out how.
    • interpreters-2x
      Interpreter services in many languages and TDDs are available for families that need help communicating with care teams. Here's how to access them.
    • We help families cope with the challenges of childhood illness and hospitalization in a relaxing environment where parents can get a much-needed break.
    • family-support-program-2x
      Weekly activities, including knitting, scrapbooking, chair massage and more, help family caregivers get a much-needed break. Find out more.
    • patient-relations-2x
      Patient relations reps and nursing supervisors are here to answer questions and address concerns. Learn about your rights, how to reach us and more.
    • spiritual-care-2x
      Chaplains help UCSF patients, families and staff cope with the spiritual and emotional challenges of childhood illness. Learn more.
    • international-services-2x
      If you're coming to UCSF from outside the U.S., we coordinate your child's appointments and provide other helpful services. Here's how to get started.