PERTUSSIS

Due to the recent surge in local pertussis or whooping cough cases, the AAP and the CDC recommend the following:

1. Make sure your childs immunizations are current and complete.  A booster (TdaP is now recommended 11 years of age.

2. If your child has strong cough "attacks" that induce vomiting, gagging, and gasping or the cough has persisted for more than 10 days, please consult your health care provider.

3. Remember, even immunized children and adults can get a mild case of whooping cough, and pass it to those most at risk(i.e. infants less than 3 months of age).  For more information log on to www.cdc.gov or the AAP website.

POOL SAFETY

Drowning is the second leading cause of accidental death in school age children, the AAP recommends the following:

1. Never leave you child alone in or near the pool, even for a moment.  An adult who knows CPR should actively supervise children at all times.

2. Practice "touch safety" with children less than 5 years of age,(i.e. keep your child within an arm reach when they are in the pool).

3. DO NOT use air-filled "swimming aids" as a substitute for approved life vests.

4. Remove all toys from the pool after use so children aren't tempted to reach for them.

5. Install a pool fence that s at least 4 feet high, covers all 4 sides of the pool , and has a self-latching divise that is higher than a child can reach,(i.e. 54 inches from the bottom of the gate).

6. Rememebr, teaching your child how to swim does not mean they are safe in the water.  Go to http://www.aap.org/healthtopics/watersafety.cfm for more information.

SUN SAFETY TIPS

1. Block the sun's harmful effects by avoiding sunburs, wearing protective clothes,a hat with a brim that faces forward to shield the fact, wear appropriate sunglasses, and finding shade.

2. There are many types of sunscreens on the market.  Avoid sprays, powders, and anything with SPF above 50+.  Many sunscreens may contain chemicals that cause allergic reactions or can absorb into your child's body.  Look for a cream sunscreen that is hypoallergenic and contains zinc or titanium dioxide. 

3. There is not enough information on the use of sunscreen in infants younger than 6 months old, so it is generally not recommended.  Keep babies covered and out of the sun. 

4. Place sunscreen on 30 minutes before going outdoors.  It needs time to absorb into the skin.  Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours.  Sunscreen wears off after swimming, sweating, or just soaking into the skin.

5. Avoid heat stress by porviding plenty of fluids during outside play.  Water of a flavored sports drink should be readily available before, during, and after physical activity.  Make sure your child is adequately hydrated!  NEVER leave any child or pet in a car unattended as this may cause heat stroke or death.

Top of Page