Part of childhood is being exposed to a myriad of illnesses, and developing the immune response that provides protection down the line. Believe it or not, in the first year of school, it is normal to have 6-8 respiratory infections (colds, coughs), 1-2 tummy bugs, and a few other scattered viral infections such as HFM or roseola.

When there are breaks in the skin barrier (e.g, minor cuts, scratches, insect bites or even rubbing of the skin) these bacteria enter and cause an infection. This is impetigo. The two main causes are the Staphylococcus and Streptococcus species.

Elderberries come from Sambucus trees. Various parts of the plant have been used for centuries in cooking and herbal remedies for a variety of ailments, and it is still used in Europe in cooking. I wouldn’t use this in my kids, though.

Molluscum is a viral infection that causes flesh colored wart-like bumps on the skin. It is super frustrating, but also quite common.

The best way to treat diaper rashes is to minimize skin irritation and apply a protectant/barrier to help skin heal.

Diaper rashes occur because skin irritation is more likely in warm, moist areas. Irritation is the most common cause of rashes in the genital area. Skin (and baby skin in particular) is easily irritated when it is left in a moist, warm environment. Stool and urine can also be irritants.

Polio is a virus that can cause a range of symptoms, from very mild to extremely severe. When severe, it can lead to paralysis. Since immunization against polio, the disease has been eradicated in the US (in 1979)… until now. There are two different vaccines that protect against polio.

Heat rash, also called “prickly heat” or “Miliaria,” occurs as a result of sweating. Rather than evaporating, the sweat gets trapped, which leads to blockage and inflammation.

Parechovirus is a virus that most often causes symptoms of the common cold. Parechovirus is a known entity that causes illness in children and vulnerable populations. Most often, it causes common cold symptoms, but in more vulnerable populations, such as newborn babies.

Here are five easy steps to becoming a pro at fixing boo-boos, and a reminder of some things to avoid (that may surprise you!) like hydrogen peroxide, neosporin and air.

Monkeypox is a zoonotic disease caused by the monkeypox virus (which is endemic in certain parts of Africa). It is related to smallpox (which has been eradicated).

Infant formula is an essential food - often the only source of nutrition for infants. The shutdown of a formula plant along with supply chain issues left families scrambling to feed their babies. The FDA has responded by temporarily allowing certain foreign companies to import formula to the US.

In infants, sunburns can become quite severe quite quickly leading to dehydration, heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Prevention is critically important. Wear the sunscreen, the UPF clothes, and reiterate the importance of avoiding tanning beds. Teach your children and teens good habits, and model them yourself.

I grew up in Malawi, and my father treated people who had vaccine-preventable illnesses, such as Polio. I feel so lucky that I can raise my children in an era with vaccines. Yes, vaccine reactions are a nuisance, but they are often mild and self-limited. Hopefully these tips help you and your child get through them with ease!

It is fine to treat your child with medication if they seem like they are uncomfortable, or have a fever or pain. But wait and see how they do. And if you can, hold off on giving it until at least 4 hours after the dose.