According to local pediatricians:
• Influenza A has been the dominant strain this season
• Influenza B is increasing, though less widespread
• RSV continues to circulate, though often less severe in infants due to increased protection
• Strep throat remains consistently present, especially among school-aged children
• Norovirus and Rotavirus are finally decreasing
When to Call Your Doctor
You should contact your pediatrician if:
• Fever isn’t improving with Tylenol or Motrin
• Your child is unusually lethargic, extremely irritable, or has a rash
• There are signs of respiratory distress or persistent vomiting
• Your child is under six months old
• Or simply if something doesn’t feel right
When in doubt, it’s always better to check.When It’s Time for the ER
Some symptoms require immediate attention.
Go to the Emergency Department or call 911 if your child has:
Respiratory distress
• Blue or gray lips
• Fast, labored, or struggling breathing
• Grunting, pauses in breathing, or sudden worsening
Signs of dehydration
• No urine for 8–12 hours
• No tears when crying
• Dry mouth, lethargy, or sunken eyes
Head injury symptoms
• Loss of consciousness
• Repeated vomiting
• Confusion or unusual behavior
• Severe headache or difficulty walkingSeizures
• First-time seizure
• Lasting more than 5 minutes
• Trouble breathing or not waking afterward
Serious infection concerns
• Fever with severe lethargy or confusion
• Rapid breathing or heart rate
• Pale, mottled, or bluish skin
• Severe pain or inconsolable crying
Possible meningitis
• Stiff neck
• Sensitivity to light
• Persistent vomiting
• Rash or difficulty wakingSevere abdominal pain
• Sharp or worsening pain (especially lower right side)
• Persistent vomiting
• Green or bloody vomit
• Bloated or hard abdomen
A Critical Note for Newborns
For babies under 60 days old:
• A temperature above 100.4°F or below 96.8°F is always an emergency
• Even if your baby appears well, immediate evaluation is necessary
The Bottom Line
Most childhood illnesses can be managed at home, but certain symptoms should never be
ignored.
Parents know their children best. If something feels off, trust your instincts and seek care.
Prevention Still Matters
The most effective protection remains simple:
• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water
• Scrub for at least 20 seconds• Rinse and dry completely
It’s still more effective than hand sanitizer.
INSTAGRAM CAPT
