Pediatrics

A popular, yet scientifically unproven, treatment for teething pain has been recalled as the potentially dangerous herb, belladonna has been found in varying amounts in the tablets. If you still own these, toss them in the trash! http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/U/US_MED_TEETHING_TABLET_RECALL?SITE=AP&SECTION=HOME&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT&CTIME=2017-04-14-16-52-32

The Centers for Disease Control has issued a travel alert for pregnant women concerning countries affected by the Zika virus. The virus, which is transmitted by a mosquito bite, can cause neurologic damage to the unborn baby. For more information, see the CDC website. http://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2016/s0315-zika-virus-travel.html

Which vaccines are a must before travel? How young is too young? What to do about sleeping arrangements in hotels? What equipment is a must and what can stay home? Join me and ask all your travel questions!

Let’s discuss the Flu vaccine. Shot, mist, one dose v. two, join in to get some clarity on this topic. I’ll be answering common questions about the vaccine, it’s risks and benefits as well as how to know when to suspect the flu in your child. Join the discussion to learn more!

Loved this article in the NY Times this week about car seats and whether or not more expensive equals better. http://www.nytimes.com/2015/06/27/your-money/car-seats-that-make-sure-the-baby-on-board-is-snug-and-safe.html?smid=nytcore-iphone-share&smprod=nytcore-iphone&_r=0

The measles outbreak that began at Disneyland and sickened over 130 people is now over. This is great news for California and for travelers to and from the state. Vaccination with the mmr (measles, mumps, rubella) shot is still the best way to prevent disease. The mmr is given after the first and fourth birthdays.http://www.reuters.com/article/2015/04/17/us-usa-measles-california-idUSKBN0N824A20150417

The American Academy of Pediatrics has issued a formal statement against the legalization of marijuana. The grounds of their opinion are based on the harmful effects marijuana has on the teenage brain and the concept that legalization allows for easier access to the drug by underage users. The AAP is in favor of decriminalization of marijuana (decreasing jail time for drug related charges) as well as in the study of marijuana as a treatment for illnesses such as severe epilepsy. Do you agree?

The NYC Health Department announced this week that beginning December 31 they will require influenza immunization (Flu shots) for all children aged 6 months to 5 years. While flu vaccine is recommended for all children aged 6 months and over by the CDC and AAP (American Academy of Pediatrics), New York City is one of the first to require the shot. This comes as influenza is not prevalent in New York and this year’s flu season expected to be severe. Children under age 2 are at greatest risk from complications from the flu. Last year, the CDC reported over 100 pediatric deaths due to flu. What do you all think of this new policy? http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2014/12/17/nyc-to-require-flu-shots-for-children-6-months-to-5-years-old/

A study just published reviewed interviews with nearly 20,000 people about the sleep environments of their babies. The results found that an alarming 50% of people are still putting infants to sleep on surfaces with blankets or other soft objects. While parents have learned not to cover babies with quilts, many still choose to put their children to sleep on top of blankets or quilts thereby increasing the risk of SIDS or accidental suffocation. It’s important to remember that soft blankets are dangerous under babies too!