Spring fever
Oh boy! Spring is in the air and kids of all ages are doing what they do best–sharing germs!
For the past few weeks, we have been busy “stamping” out diseases (or letting your child’s body do its job with the “stamping”!)
Just for review: Viruses are germs that only go away when your immune system works its magic….antibiotics do NOT help kill viruses! Bacteria are germs that your immune system can fight, however, antibiotics are often used to help your body eliminate the bacteria.
So, here is what we are seeing out there in our wonderful Monterey County community:
Roseola…VIRAL illness. Your child will get high fevers and feel yuk. Most of the time there are no other symptoms. This will last for several days and then the fever disappears. You think all is well, but wait, now your child has a red, blanching rash on their body (tiny little spots)! Yikes! Take a deep breath, the rash is not dangerous and will go away in a few days. Your child is no longer contagious once the rash develops. You and your child have survived Roseola!
Hand-Foot-Mouth (and sometimes Butt) Disease….VIRAL illness. Your child will have fevers, will drool and refuse to take liquids or food, will complain of throat pain (if old enough to talk) and you will notice red and/or blister-like lesions in your child’s mouth, on the palms of your child’s hands, the soles of their feet and yes, sometimes around their bottom area. Once again, take a deep breath, as this illness will resolve on its own. Very important: pain/fever management (tylenol or motrin) AND lots of cool, non-citrus, non-salty liquids to drink. The mouth sores really hurt and certain foods/liquids will make it worse. If you think your child is getting dehydrated, please call our office!! 333-0999
Finally, we are seeing Strep Throat…BACTERIAL illness. This one is a good one! Sore throat, difficulty swallowing, fever, nausea and vomiting. Sometimes you will notice a “sandpaper”-like red rash on your child’s body (mainly abdomen area). This illness will need antibiotics in order for your child to get better. We can test for this in the office which means bring your child in if you suspect Strep Throat.
As always, if you feel your child does not look good, is having trouble breathing or seems dehydrated, do not hesitate to call us and make an appointment! We are committed to seeing your child for acute illnesses on the day you call. It is always better to get your child seen than to worry.
Until next time….