What's Bugging Us in October?!?
Michael Martin • October 9, 2024
Infections that are affecting kids now
As we move deeper into the fall season, Fairfax County has seen a notable rise in cases of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and influenza, with Mycoplasma pneumoniae infections also persisting. Understanding these illnesses, their symptoms, and when to seek medical attention can help families stay prepared.
A Quick Overview of the Illnesses
RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus): RSV is a common respiratory virus that affects people of all ages but can be especially severe in infants and young children. Symptoms include coughing, sneezing, runny nose, and sometimes wheezing. For some children, particularly those under two years of age or those with underlying conditions, RSV can lead to bronchiolitis or pneumonia.
Influenza (Flu): The flu is a highly contagious viral infection that impacts the respiratory system. Symptoms often include fever, body aches, chills, fatigue, and a dry cough. While most cases resolve with rest and fluids, the flu can lead to serious complications, particularly in young children and older adults.
Mycoplasma Pneumoniae: This bacterium causes a milder form of pneumonia, often referred to as "walking pneumonia." Symptoms can include a persistent dry cough, sore throat, and fatigue. Unlike RSV or flu, Mycoplasma pneumoniae infections tend to develop slowly, with a longer incubation period.
How to Treat These Illnesses
RSV and Flu: Treatment focuses on supportive care, including staying hydrated, using a humidifier to ease breathing, and using fever reducers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen as needed. In some cases, antiviral medications like Tamiflu can be prescribed for the flu if caught early. There is currently no antiviral treatment for RSV, so care is primarily aimed at keeping the patient comfortable.
Mycoplasma Pneumoniae: Antibiotics, such as macrolides (e.g., azithromycin), are effective against Mycoplasma pneumoniae. It’s important to follow the full course of prescribed antibiotics even if symptoms improve.
The Role of Nirsevimab for Infants
For infants, RSV can pose a significant risk, leading to severe respiratory illness that sometimes requires hospitalization. This year, nirsevimab (also known by its brand name Beyfortus) has become an important tool in preventing severe RSV infections in infants. Nirsevimab is a monoclonal antibody designed to provide passive immunity against RSV for newborns and infants during their first RSV season.
Unlike vaccines that stimulate the body’s immune response, nirsevimab provides immediate protection by delivering antibodies directly. It has been shown to reduce the risk of severe RSV-related complications, helping keep vulnerable infants safe during peak RSV seasons. The American Academy of Pediatrics has recommended nirsevimab for all infants under 8 months of age entering their first RSV season, and for certain high-risk infants up to 24 months old.
When to Seek Medical Care
Parents should keep an eye out for signs that an illness might need medical attention:
- RSV: Seek help if your child is breathing rapidly, struggling to breathe, wheezing, or showing signs of dehydration (e.g., fewer wet diapers). Babies who are very tired or feeding poorly may also need to be seen promptly.
- Flu: A high fever that lasts more than a few days, difficulty breathing, severe cough, or signs of dehydration warrant a visit to the pediatrician. Children with chronic health conditions or those under 2 years old are at higher risk for complications and should be monitored closely.
- Mycoplasma Pneumoniae: If a child has a persistent cough that lasts for more than a week or is accompanied by fever, fatigue, or difficulty breathing, it's time to see a doctor for evaluation.
Staying Protected
In addition to the RSV prevention provided by nirsevimab, parents are encouraged to ensure their children receive the flu vaccine, practice good hand hygiene, and keep children home from school or daycare when they are ill. The flu vaccine is particularly important this season as it can help prevent severe flu cases, which can sometimes coincide with RSV outbreaks.
Flu season is here, and if your family hasn’t been hit yet, chances are you know someone who has! This year’s flu strain is causing the usual fever, cough, sore throat, and body aches—but for young kids, especially those under five, the flu can sometimes take a more serious turn. So, what can you do? Here’s a breakdown of how to care for your child at home, what treatments are available, and when to call your pediatrician. Flu Symptoms to Watch For Flu symptoms often come on quickly and may include: ✔️ Fever (often high) ✔️ Chills and body aches ✔️ Sore throat and cough ✔️ Runny or stuffy nose ✔️ Fatigue ✔️ Headache ✔️ Vomiting or diarrhea (more common in kids than adults) Home Care: Helping Your Child Feel Better Most kids with the flu can recover at home with these simple steps: 🛏 Rest – Encourage plenty of sleep to help their immune system fight the virus. 💧 Hydration – Offer small, frequent sips of water, electrolyte drinks, or warm broths to prevent dehydration. 🌡 Fever & Pain Relief – Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin) can help with fever and body aches (ask us if you're unsure about dosing). Never give aspirin to children—it’s linked to Reye’s syndrome. 🍲 Gentle Nutrition – Offer easy-to-digest foods like toast, applesauce, or soup if they’re up for it. Treatment Options: Do You Need Tamiflu? For certain kids—especially those under 2, with asthma, or other high-risk conditions—antiviral medications like Tamiflu (oseltamivir) may be recommended. These work best when started within 48 hours of symptoms and can help shorten the illness. However, most healthy kids recover with home care alone. When to Call the Doctor 🚨 Seek medical attention if your child: Is under 3 months old and has a fever Has difficulty breathing (fast breathing, ribs pulling in, or wheezing) Shows signs of dehydration (dry lips, no tears, fewer wet diapers) Has a persistent fever (lasting more than 3-4 days) Is extremely irritable or hard to wake up Symptoms seem to improve, then suddenly worsen For high-risk kids—like infants, those with asthma, heart disease, or weakened immune systems—call us at the first sign of flu symptoms. Flu Prevention: It’s Not Too Late for a Flu Shot! The best way to protect your family is with the annual flu vaccine. If your child hasn’t had theirs yet, it’s not too late! The flu shot helps prevent severe illness and hospitalizations, especially in young kids. If you have any concerns or your child is struggling with flu symptoms, give our office a call. We’re here to help!
Winter can be a tough season for your child’s skin. The combination of cold, dry air outdoors and heated, low-humidity air indoors often leads to dryness, itching, and irritation. But don’t worry! With a few simple strategies, you can help protect and soothe your child’s skin this winter. Why Does Winter Cause Skin Problems? According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), winter air has lower humidity, which dries out the skin. Add in wind exposure, indoor heating, and long, hot baths, and it’s a recipe for discomfort. Children, with their delicate and sensitive skin, are particularly vulnerable to these changes. Top Tips for Winter Skin Care 1. Moisturize Frequently • Apply a fragrance-free, thick moisturizer or ointment like petroleum jelly immediately after bathing. • Look for products labeled “hypoallergenic” or “for sensitive skin” to avoid irritation. • Keep a small tube of moisturizer handy for reapplication throughout the day, especially after handwashing. 2. Shorten Bath Time • Stick to 5-10 minute baths using lukewarm (not hot) water. • Use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser only when needed. • Pat skin dry gently and apply moisturizer while the skin is still damp to lock in hydration. 3. Use a Humidifier • Running a humidifier in your child’s bedroom at night can add moisture to the air and prevent their skin from drying out. • Be sure to clean the humidifier regularly to avoid mold and bacteria buildup. 4. Dress Smartly for Cold Weather • Choose soft, breathable fabrics like cotton for base layers. • Avoid wool or rough fabrics that can irritate the skin. • Cover exposed areas with gloves and hats, but avoid scarves for younger children due to potential safety risks. 5. Prevent Chapped Lips • Apply a fragrance-free lip balm or petroleum jelly regularly, especially before heading outside. • Encourage your child not to lick their lips, as this can worsen dryness. 6. Protect Against Sunburn • The AAP reminds us that even in winter, sun protection is essential. Snow reflects UV rays, increasing the risk of sunburn. • Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher on exposed skin, and don’t forget about lips and ears. When to Call Your Pediatrician Sometimes, winter skin issues go beyond simple dryness. If your child has: • Persistent redness, cracking, or itching • Patches of thickened, rough skin • Any signs of infection like swelling, warmth, or oozing … it’s time to schedule a visit. Conditions like eczema or skin infections may require additional care. Final Thoughts A little extra care can go a long way in keeping your child’s skin soft, smooth, and healthy this winter. If you have questions or concerns about your child’s skin, we’re always here to help. Stay warm, stay hydrated, and enjoy the season with peace of mind knowing your little one’s skin is protected! Sources: American Academy of Dermatology, American Academy of Pediatrics
As temperatures drop and winter weather sets in here in Northern, VA., it’s essential to revisit an often-overlooked aspect of child safety: car seats. While bulky coats and snowsuits keep little ones warm, they can also compromise car seat safety. Here’s what every parent needs to know to keep their children safe and snug in the car this winter. The Dangers of Puffy Coats in Car Seats Winter coats and snowsuits create a gap between your child and the car seat harness. In a crash, the fluffy padding compresses, leaving the harness too loose to properly protect your child. This can lead to increased risk of injury, as the child may shift significantly or even be ejected from the seat. How to Keep Kids Safe and Warm Follow these tips, backed by pediatric safety experts and organizations like the CDC, AAP, and JAMA: Dress in Layers Start with snug, thin layers like a onesie or thermal shirt. Add fleece or a light sweater for extra warmth. Avoid bulky outerwear while your child is strapped in the car seat. Use a Blanket or Car Seat Cover. After securing your child in the car seat, drape a blanket or use a car seat cover (that doesn’t interfere with the harness) over them for warmth. The "Harness Test" Buckle your child into their car seat without a coat and tighten the harness. Remove your child without loosening the straps and put them back in wearing their coat. If you can't buckle the harness at the same tightness, the coat is too bulky to wear in the car seat. Consider a Winter Car Seat-Compatible Coat Some brands make thin, warm coats designed for car seat use. Look for products tested and approved for this purpose. Additional Winter Safety Tips Pre-Warm the Car (totally optional): Start your car a few minutes early to warm it up before buckling in your child. Plan for Emergencies: Keep extra blankets, hats, gloves, and a first-aid kit in the car. Why It Matters Car accidents are a leading cause of injury for children, and properly using car seats can reduce the risk of fatal injury by up to 71% (CDC). Ensuring your child is safely secured, even in winter conditions, is one of the simplest ways to protect them. Stay safe and warm this winter! If you have any questions about car seat safety, feel free to reach out to us at Einstein Pediatrics. We’re here to help keep your family safe.
The holidays are a time for joy, celebration, and making memories with family and friends. However, the season also comes with unique risks for children. Here are some safety tips sourced from trusted organizations like the CDC and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) to help keep your family safe this holiday season: 🎄 Decorate with Care Tree Safety: If you have a tree, anchor it securely to prevent it from tipping over. For live trees, keep them hydrated to minimize the risk of fire. Ornaments: Place breakable or small ornaments out of reach of young children to prevent choking hazards or injuries. 🔥 Fire Prevention Lights: Check holiday lights for frayed wires, broken bulbs, or loose connections. Turn off all lights before going to bed or leaving the house. Candles: Use flameless candles whenever possible. If you use traditional candles, keep them out of reach of children and away from flammable decorations. 🛷 Safe Outdoor Fun Cold Weather Gear: Make sure kids are dressed warmly with layers, hats, gloves, and waterproof boots. Winter Sports: Helmets are essential for activities like sledding and ice skating to prevent head injuries. 🎁 Choosing Safe Toys Check labels to ensure toys are appropriate for your child’s age and development. Avoid toys with small parts, button batteries, or magnets for children under 3 years old. Ensure older siblings’ toys are kept out of reach of younger children. 🍬 Food and Allergy Awareness Be mindful of choking hazards like hard candy, whole nuts, and popcorn. If your child has food allergies, remind family and friends of safe options, and always have an epinephrine auto-injector on hand if prescribed. 🏠 Holiday Gatherings Supervise children closely during parties and family events, especially around unfamiliar spaces or people. Be cautious with alcohol, hot beverages, and sharp utensils that might be left unattended. 🚗 Travel Safely Use age-appropriate car seats or booster seats for all road trips, no matter how short. Plan for regular breaks on long drives to keep everyone comfortable and safe. 🛌 Stick to Routines While the holidays are busy, try to maintain consistent sleep and meal schedules to keep your little ones well-rested and happy. For more detailed safety guidelines, visit trusted sources like HealthyChildren.org or the CDC’s Holiday Health and Safety Tips. Your family’s safety is our top priority. If you have any concerns or questions this holiday season, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Einstein Pediatrics. Wishing you all a safe, happy, and healthy holiday season!
Welcome back to our monthly health roundup!
Halloween Safety Tips for Kids and Families: A Fun and Safe Celebration
Why the Beyfortus Injection is Important for Infants
Why the COVID Vaccine is Important for Kids This Season
Why the Seasonal Flu Vaccine is Crucial for Children
Administering oral medication to young children can be a challenge, but with a few practical tips, you can make the process smoother and less stressful for both you and your child. Here are some tips to help: Be Honest and Calm: Explain to your child that they need to take their medicine to feel better. Stay calm and positive, as children often pick up on their parents' emotions. Use a Syringe or Dropper: These tools can be more accurate and easier to use than a spoon. Place the syringe between the gum and cheek, and slowly squeeze the medicine into their mouth. Flavor the Medicine: Some pharmacies can add flavors to liquid medications to make them more palatable. Ask your pharmacist if this service is available. Chill the Medicine: Some medications taste better when they are cold. Check with your pharmacist to ensure it's safe, and if so, refrigerate the medicine before giving it. Offer a Reward: A small reward, like a sticker or a few extra minutes of playtime, can be a good incentive for taking medicine. Mix with Food or Drink: If the medication can be taken with food, mix it with a small amount of a favorite food or drink. Check with your pharmacist to ensure this won’t affect the medicine’s efficacy. Use a Distraction: Distract your child with a favorite toy, a book, or a video while administering the medicine. Practice Makes Perfect: Use a toy syringe or spoon and practice giving "medicine" to a favorite doll or stuffed animal. Break it Down: If your child is old enough, explain the importance of taking medicine in simple terms. Understanding the reason behind it can sometimes help with cooperation. Stay Consistent: Try to administer the medication at the same time and in the same place each day. Consistency can help your child know what to expect and reduce anxiety. If you continue to have trouble, don't hesitate to reach out to us for additional advice. We can offer specific strategies tailored to your child’s needs!
