Want to keep your family healthy? Stay up to date on recommended vaccinations – not just for the kids in your household but also for the adults. “Vaccinations are key to avoiding preventable illnesses,” said Pooja Sheth-Dutt, MD, a family…
Pay closer attention to your children’s cold symptoms this winter, especially if they are very young or immunocompromised. Hospitals are seeing high rates of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in young children right now. “RSV is a virus people can get…
A new school year is quickly approaching, which means many kids are helping pick out a new backpack and gathering school supplies. For some children, going back to school can increase feelings of anxiety because they will be separating from…
You’ve probably relied on your child’s pediatrician for expert advice throughout childhood. But as high school graduation arrives, you may wonder whether it’s time for your child to make the switch to an adult primary care provider. “The American Academy…
All you want for Christmas is a picture-perfect photo of your child sitting on Santa’s lap to share with the world on social media, holiday cards and texts to grandparents. Unfortunately, your child won’t set foot near the bearded bearer…
Does Grandma know best? Usually! But when it comes to recommended best practices for infant safety, a lot has changed over the past 100 years. September is Baby Safety Month—an opportunity to see how far we have come in protecting…
Students return to school this month, and COVID-19 may top parent’s concern list right up there with stomach bugs, influenza and common colds. Anna Richie, MD, clinical director for urgent care at Memorial Health, encourages parents to talk with their…
Ever had to wrestle a digital screen from your screaming child? Controlling screen time can be a monumental challenge—screens are everywhere, and young (and old) brains are easily addicted. “Screen time poses a larger challenge than the negative impact of…
A child’s chronic tendency to develop ear infections may not just be bad luck. Allergies could be the culprit. Central Illinois can be a hotbox for allergic rhinitis, otherwise known as seasonal outdoor and indoor allergies. And children are especially…
Many women do not learn until pregnancy that they need some new vaccinations or booster injections (an extra dose of a vaccine to extend your immunity). Keeping your vaccines up-to-date can help you to protect you and your family. “Vaccines…