Throwback Threats – Measles and Pertussis
Measles and Pertussis Are Making a Comeback In 2000, the United States declared measles eradicated, meaning this infectious disease had been nearly eliminated in our country. Much of this success was due to comprehensive vaccination programs. Because measles is highly transmissible through casual contact, the threshold for “herd immunity” — the critical percentage of immune […]
Changes to the Childhood Vaccine Schedule
A Quick Overview of the Latest Changes. The Department of Health and Human Service (HHS) recently rolled out some major changes to the established childhood vaccine schedule. Six of the 17 recommended vaccines were moved from a mandatory status to one of “shared clinical decision-making.” These include Hepatitis A and B, Rotavirus, Tetravalent Meningococcal, and […]
The New Food Pyramid
What’s New in the Updated Food Pyramid New US Dietary guidelines were released last week from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Below, the illustration of the “old” food pyramid, in use from 2005-2011, encouraged a base of grains, equal parts fruits and vegetables, smaller portions of dairy and proteins (including meat, poultry, […]
Energy Drinks and Kids
Experts at major health organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) agree: ENERGY DRINKS ARE BAD FOR KIDS. Brand names like Red Bull, Monster Energy, Bang, Rockstar, and 5-Hour Energy are the market leaders in this realm. While all of these companies claim to offer […]
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
RSV is a contagious respiratory virus that circulates from the Fall through the Spring. It overlaps with “Cold and Flu season”, and with COVID occurring year-round, it can be confusing for doctors and nurses to land on a definitive diagnosis. Rhinovirus, Adenovirus, Parainfluenza, Echovirus, Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), Influenza, RSV, and Coronavirus can all present with […]
The Flu vs A Cold
Written by Dr. Carly Wilbur, UH Pediatrician and PSI Medical Director.
Giving Thanks on Thanksgiving (and Beyond)
Written by Dr. Carly Wilbur, UH Pediatrician and PSI Medical Director.
Halloween Safety Tips
Written by Dr. Carly Wilbur, UH Pediatrician and PSI Medical Director.
Digital Dementia
Digital Dementia Digital dementia is a term coined to describe the cognitive decline associated with increased use of electronic devices like tablets, computers, and smartphones. Studies have shown a correlation between increased exposure to screen time and cognitive impairments, like poor focus, short term memory deficit, and even declining long-term memory retention. It’s not hard […]
Why Vaccine Mandates in School Matter
This week, Florida became the first state to remove school vaccine mandates. This wasn’t done passively, it followed an angry rant by the state’s Surgeon General, who labeled mandatory vaccination an “immoral” intrusion on personal rights. Most doctors, parents, public health workers, and families do not support this move. As a mother and a professional […]