Caring for Kids:
Ministry of Health:
Merck Manual:
Thrush
Thrush is a common mouth infection in infants.
It is caused by yeast called Candida albicans. Candida is often found in babies’ mouths without causing any problems. But because their immune systems are still developing, sometimes the amount of yeast can overgrow and lead to an infection.
Typical symptoms are white, cheesy, or curd-like patches in the mouth. These patches can be wiped off but may lead to minor bleeding, pain, and redness in the mouth.
Diagnosis is based on an examination of the mouth. The infection often goes away after treatment with antifungal medication.
Individual cases are not reportable to the Health Unit.
Should one go to childcare, school, or work if they have thrush?
Children with thrush or candida diaper rash can continue to attend childcare, provided they feel well enough to participate comfortably in all program activities.
Follow the direction of your healthcare provider or occupational health at your workplace.
Healthcare provider information
Merck Manual Professional Version:
Contact our Communicable Disease Control (CDC) program at 705-474-1400 or toll free at 1-800-563-2808, ext. 5229, or by email to cdc@healthunit.ca for more information.
Last reviewed: Aug 2026, by CDC