It is only 3 weeks to the official start of Spring, but as those of us who have lived in Chicagoland for a while now are aware, winter seems to hang around for several more months, along with many winter illnesses.
- We are continuing to see many children with nasal congestion and wheezing, most of which is due to the respiratory syncytial virus. This usually affects preschoolers, and can be concerning in infants under 6 months. It usually presents with nasal congestion and low grade fever, but soon may progress with a wet chesty cough and some respiratory distress. Sometimes we are able to diagnose in the office with a nasal swab, and this does help us to be able to predict the course. Ear infections and very occasionally pneumonia can be associated. It is important to watch whether a child is having difficulty breathing, and to make sure that fluid intake is adequate. Usually the acute phase of the illness lasts 3-5 days but the cough can really linger for 2 weeks. An appointment is always recommended if you are worried.
- Also there seems to be still a significant number of children with gastroenteritis. This typically starts with vomiting and usually is followed by diarrhea within a few days. If the vomiting is persistent please always call the doctor on call, as younger children can become dehydrated quite quickly. Small sips of clear fluids containing sugar, preferably pedialyte in younger children, are recommended -even if your child is not too interested in drinking. Do not worry about eating for a few days. Once again watching the urine output is very important. As mentioned in previous blogs these are usually viral illnesses, that will get better with supportive care, and do not need antibiotics.
- The new Prevnar vaccine has been licensed. This vaccine will cover 13 antigens as apposed to 7 in the current vaccine. One important serotype - or variety of pneumococcus that is resistant to amoxicillin is included in the new vaccine. The Prevnar vaccine is usually given at 2, 4, 6, 12-18 and 24 months. Pneumococcus can cause ear infections, sinusitis, pneumonia and meningitis, among other illnesses. We hope to have supplies of the new vaccine within a month
- We will continue to offer 'Walk-in hours' everyday through March- including THURSDAYS - please give us your feedback about this service, and any recommendations are always welcome. As usual if you show up before 10am being seen is guaranteed, and if we are not too busy we are flexible with this time. Dr Miki continues to see children for check-ups starting at 9 am on Thursdays.
- Dr Nelson will be back in the office starting March 18th.
