Latest News  

  
2011-2012 Influenza vaccine recommendations
The seasonal flu vaccine is recommended for anyone over 6 months old, with a booster dose at least 28 days after the first dose for kids under 9 years old who are receiving the flu vaccine for the first time this season.  The live vaccine (FluMist) can be given to any patient over 2 who does not have asthma or underlying medical conditions, but must not be given within 4 weeks of any other live vaccine.
 
We will be giving the flu vaccine to all patients over 6 months old who need the vaccine at their scheduled well visits, as supply allows last, throughout the fall and winter. If any of your children are due for well visits between September and December, we will vaccinate all of your children at that time. Flu clinics are available at our office for families who do not have appointments during that time or whose children need 2 doses of the vaccine this year.  Please call the office to schedule an appointment. Patients who need the vaccine can call to schedule an appointment, while appointments and vaccine are available. 
 
Influenza
Fortunately most cases of influenza that we have seen in children are mild and don't require a visit to the doctor or even a call to the nurse.  If you are concerned that your child has the flu, please check our influenza handout for guidelines. Testing for the influenza virus has been limited to patients who are sick enough to be hospitalized or are in severe respiratory distress.  Schools no longer require testing in order to return.
 
Most people who have been sick with influenza have recovered at home without treatment. If your child has flu-like symptoms, please keep him or her at home until fever-free for 24 hours (without fever-reducing medicine) an until they are feeling better.
 
With the flu, complications can occur. Seek emergency medical care or page the doctor on call if your child becomes ill and experiences any of the following warning signs:
 
  • Fast breathing
  • Trouble breathing
  • Bluish or gray skin color
  • Not drinking enough fluids
  • Not urinating as much as usual
  • Severe or persistent vomiting
  • Not waking up or interacting as usual
  • Being so irritable that your child does not even want to be held
Fever returns after being absent for a day, or a significant change in fever pattern occurs. For example, it was 101 degrees Fahrenheit for several days and now it’s 103 degrees.
 
Remember, the best way to prevent illness is to
wash your hands frequently!