Dr. F. Elamin, our new pediatrician at North Pointe has 5 tips that we all can do.
As we transition from the warm embrace of summer to the chill of fall, it’s time to prepare for the seasonal illnesses that tend to circulate during the cooler months.
Fathalrahman Elamin, MD, whose specialty is pediatric care recently joined the Hamilton team and says it’s never too early to protect yourself and your children from the germs and viruses that are rampant this time of year. He says influenza, the common cold, RSV, and strep throat are the most common illnesses he seems to treat come fall. Here are his tips on how to avoid and treat each:
Influenza, or the flu, is a highly contagious respiratory illness that often peaks during the fall and winter months. Children, especially those under the age of five, are particularly vulnerable to the flu’s severe complications, which can include pneumonia, difficulty breathing and even respiratory failure with hospitalization, and even death. Flu vaccine is one of the best preventive measures.
TIP: If your child has a fever be sure to keep him or her home from school so he has time to recover and can do so quicker.
The common cold is a viral infection that causes a runny nose, sneezing, and congestion. Dr. Elamin warns that while colds are usually self-limiting, colds can lead to complications in children with weakened immune systems, such as asthma, diabetes, cardiac issues, etc. Teach your children to cover their cough using their elbow, along with the proper use, and disposal of tissues.
TIP: Did you know that washing your hands can be considered medicinal? Hand-hygiene is a very important step in protecting your child. Teach children to wash their hands after using the restroom, before and after eating a meal, after playing, and when dirt is visible. Remind your kids that it takes about a minute to properly wash their hands. Also, be sure to use soap and water. The water rinses off all the viruses and germs.
Respiratory syncytial virus, or more commonly known as RSV, is a virus that causes respiratory infections primarily in young children and infants. It can lead to bronchiolitis and pneumonia which can be life-threatening for infants. You can protect your baby from RSV by getting the RSV vaccine during pregnancy. You can also immunize your baby against RSV with the RSV immunization that provides antibodies to your baby after birth. If you receive RSV vaccine while pregnant, your baby will have protection and, in most cases, should not need an RSV immunization later.
Tip: Avoid close contact with sick individuals, especially during the infant stage. Remember, even a slight cough or a raspy voice in an adult can be dangerous to a baby up to two years old.
Strep throat is a bacterial infection caused by Streptococcus bacteria. It can result in a sore throat, fever, and, if left untreated, lead to complications on the heart and kidneys. Dr. Elamin warns that if your child exhibits symptoms of strep throat, seek medical attention immediately.
TIP: Another very important habit to teach your children is a healthy diet. Dr. Elamin says a healthy diet can help fight off illnesses faster by providing energy to the immune system.
A healthy diet can look different to everyone, talk to your provider about a proper diet for your child. Also encourage your children to drink from their own cup to decrease the germ spread by saliva.
Moms and pediatricians alike know it’s just a matter of time before we need to stock up on tissues, ibuprofen or Tylenol and get that thermometer ready. Protecting our little ones requires vigilance and proactive measures, including vaccinations, good hygiene, and healthy habits. By taking preventive steps now, parents and caregivers can help keep their children safe and healthy.
TIP: Remember to stop the spread – if you or your child are experiencing any symptoms of these illnesses be sure to stay home to avoid sharing the illness with others. Make sure to allow your children to get the proper rest, plenty of fluids and the treatment they need to push through the illness.
Dr. Elamin holds board certification from the American Board of Pediatrics and has been practicing medicine for over thirty years globally. He is genuinely kind and is committed to the health and development of his patients. He enjoys working as a team with parents and caregivers to establish the best care plan for his young patients.
Dr. Elamin is taking new pediatric patients now, call 810.406.4246 to schedule an appointment today.
