Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do we need to be seen with a prolonged cold?
In general, if a cold is getting worse on day 4, or no better by day 8, a child should be seen to determine if they have developed a secondary infection that may require antibiotics.
2. How contagious is the Measles?
Measles is a very contagious viral illness characterized by high fever, cough, and extensive rash. During the last 6 weeks, there have been over 60 cases of measles in California. Most, but not all of these cases, have occurred in the unimmunized population. A good number of those contracting the disease have been children, but also adults who were either not immunized or in instances where they were immunized and the vaccine didn’t take or in the immunity has worn off. Children should get immunized. (check out our Measles Update)
3. What is Enterovirus D68? Why are more children posed to get it?
Enteroviruses are a class of viruses that are very common, usually causing mild cold symptoms or mild intestinal symptoms. Recently a particular strain of Enterovirus called EV-D68 has made headlines because a small percentage of these cases, especially in young children and asthmatics, have developed into severe pneumonia. An even smaller percentage of cases have caused severe muscle weakness or even paralysis. Adults can get this virus, but in general their immune system seems to be better able to handle it than children. There is no particular treatment for EV-D68, but fortunately very few cases do become severely ill. Suspect the EV-D68 virus if your child’s cold progresses quickly into labored breathing or muscle weakness.
4. Is it too late to get the Flu Shot?
No. Though this years shot has only had a 23% effective rate, it does offer some protection and there still could be a second wave of the flu coming this winter or even as late as next spring. This years shot also offers protection against the H1N1 Virus that was a bigger problem in pervious years.
5. Should we still be getting the H1N1 Vaccine?
The H1N1 Vaccine is included in the annual flu shot so if you have gotten the Flu shot, you are most likely covered.
6. Are there any new effective treatments for ADD?
There are always new treatments for ADD ranging from Fish Oil to Herbal Remedies to Biofeedback which seem to work for some children. Unfortunately, the most effective treatment for true ADD cases remains one of the stimulant medications in the Ritalin family.
7. How high a fever is considered dangerous?
When a fever hits 105 degrees, or if a child runs a fever for more than 3 days they definitley should be seen. An office visit is also advised after 3 days if the child is not responding to treatment. In general, high fevers in children are not usually dangerous until 107 degrees. It is more important on how the child acts rather than the actual temperature.
8. Is it safe for a baby to sleep face down in a crib?
Even though most babies have been put to sleep on their stomach safely for many years, recent studies show the incidence of Crib Death is lowest when babies sleep on their back. That is why the Academy of Pediatrics recommends “Back to Sleep”.
9. Is there a connection between Vaccines and Autism?
There has been a lot of public speculation about a link since the increase in Autism does coincide with the increase in the number of recommended vaccines. However, no scientific study has proven the connection and there clearly are unvaccinated Autistic children. The cause of Autism appears to be complex with some environmental trigger in genetically susceptible children being one of the best explanations.
10. How quickly can one become antibiotic resistant?
Very quickly, but it’s really more that bacteria that normally live in your body can change and be resistant to the usual antibiotics we use. That is why we try to be as selective as possible about using antibiotics.
11. What foods are first recommended when a child begins a solid food diet?
Normally we start solid foods at 6 months of age with Rice Cereal first. Next we add Vegetables and then Fruits. However, we always wait 3 days before starting a new food in case there is an allergic reaction.
12. When will an Infant’s eyes reveal their true permanent color?
Usually by 6 months of age but occasionally eye color willchange even after 1 year of age.