What are some viruses in the area now that schools are open? Anything in particular we should be aware of? Some moms are mentioning fever and tummy problems. What do you see?

Dr. Bill: As the kids return to school, pediatricians get geared up for a rise in viral illnesses.  Typically, there’s a two-week “grace period” right after school starts, and then the sickness tsunami hits!  This often brings upper respiratory infections with a fair amount of gastro type infections (vomiting/diarrhea), and of course strep infections.

This year, we are seeing a large number of patients with a viral illness that creates mild congestion, sore throat, GI symptoms (tummy aches, nausea, diarrhea), and fever.  Strep throat is something we always deal with every fall/winter.  We even have a few patients with flu symptoms, which is some sort of cold virus.

My recommendation to parents is to increase their child’s vitamin C intake, encourage good hand washing, and cover their coughs/sneezes.  Prevention goes a long way in this situation.  Should your child get sick, provide the proper supportive care (fluids, rest, fever reducer, and “chicken soup”).  If she has severe symptoms, schedule an appointment with your pediatrician for a thorough evaluation.

Now would be a good time to get your flu vaccine… before the flu actually gets here.  The vaccine is available in two forms: the standard shot, or nasal spray.  The nasal spray (Flumist) can be given to healthy patients from 2- 49 years of age.  The flu shot also comes in a preservative-free version for small children.  This year’s flu vaccine also includes the H1N1 strain.