John M. Young, MD

Pediatrician In Amarillo, Texas

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Vaccinations

What Parents Should Know About The Different Types Of Flu Virus

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Flu season isn’t over yet! The period of high-infection risk usually starts in October and can last until May. There are many different kinds of flu, and just because your child has caught one doesn’t mean they won’t catch another. Read this helpful guide to learn more about the flu virus and how you can keep your child healthy this season.

What is the Flu and how does it spread?

Influenza, more commonly known as the flu, is a highly contagious virus that affects the air passages and lungs. It can spread quickly through contact with infected people, the air via coughs and sneezes, and just by touching a contaminated surface.

What are the types of flu?

The types of flu can be broken down into three different categories. They are similar but have small differences that set them apart. The three types are:

Type A

This type of flu is the most commonly contracted virus among humans. It is usually responsible for the outbreaks and epidemics you see during the flu season. Although Type A and Type B share identical symptoms and are thought to be the same, there are a few key differences. The reason behind Type A’s high infection rate is the fact that this virus constantly mutates. It has hundreds of different strains. It has also been known to infect both humans and animals, such as birds and pigs.

Type A strains are broken down into H and N subtypes. Currently, there are 16 H and 9 N known subtypes. The combinations behind most (if not all) of the human infections are H1N1, H2N2, and H3N2. The rest have mostly only been found in animals.

Type B

This type of flu is almost identical to Type A. Although Type B is less common, they share the same symptoms and neither type is worse than the other. The only major differences are that Type B is only found in humans and that, while it has many strains, it is not broken down into subtypes. A majority of flu vaccines contain at least 1 or 2 strains of Type B, depending on which strains experts think might be a problem.

Type C

The last type of flu is Type C. You can think of this type as a very watered-down version of Type A and B. All this virus does is cause mild respiratory sickness that may seem more like a cold than the flu. It may not even cause any symptoms at all. This type does not cause any kind of epidemic and shouldn’t cause any severe health problems.

What are the symptoms of the flu?

When your child contracts Type A or Type B flu, the symptoms are more or less the same. Infected children will feel the symptoms very suddenly, which can include:

  • Aching muscles
  • Sore throat
  • Coughing
  • Fatigue or lack of energy
  • Runny nose
  • High Fever
  • Headaches
  • Nausea and Vomiting
  • Diarrhea

It usually only takes about a week for a child to recover from influenza. However, fatigue and other symptoms may linger for a few more weeks. Be sure to know the difference between a cold and the flu, as it is easy to confuse these two illnesses. The flu can lead to more severe medical problems down the road, like pneumonia or even death. This is especially true for children who already have health issues like asthma or heart conditions. If you think your child has contracted the flu, take them to their doctor as soon as possible.

How can I protect my child?

There are a number of easy steps you can take to help prevent your child from catching the flu virus. The best method by far is to have them vaccinated annually. It is highly recommended that children over the age of 6 months get their vaccination before the start of the flu season. A common misconception is that the vaccine can give your child the flu. While the vaccine can give your child very mild versions of some symptoms, such as a dull headache, it will not cause an actual infection.

Children who catch the flu usually get it by touching a contaminated surface and then touching their eyes or mouth. To protect your child, keep them out of large crowds, and make sure they wash their hands often. Disinfect any surface they may come into contact with as well.

What can I do to help my child if they get the flu?

So what do you do if your child has contracted the flu? While there is no direct cure, there are a few things you can do to help ease their symptoms. Along with what your doctor suggests, you can take the following steps.

  1. Keep them home: This is pretty much a given, but keep your child home until they are recovered and no longer contagious. Make sure they’re comfortable and that they get lots of rest.
  2. Have them drink a lot of water: It’s easy to get dehydrated when you’re sick and this is especially true for children. Make sure your child drinks lots of water, fruit juice, or broth-based soups. Avoid carbonated drinks, as these can irritate sore throats.
  3. Use a humidifier: Having a humidifier will help open your child’s airways. Steam can help soothe irritated nasal passages too and get rid of the mucus that makes it hard to breathe.
  4. Help get rid of the pain: The flu is hard on the human body. Ask your child’s doctor if they can have acetaminophen or other pain medications to soothe achy muscles.

Does your child need a flu vaccination?

Do you still have questions about the flu virus and how it may affect your child? Dr. Young and his friendly staff will do everything they can to keep your child happy and healthy. Call us at (806) 354-0404 ext. 3330 or Send Us an Email to learn more about what we can do for you. You can also visit us in person at 1500 S. Coulter St., Suite #3 in Amarillo, Texas.

Signs Of The Flu Vs. The Cold In Children

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It’s cold and flu season once again! We’re stuck between the two overlapping seasons, and both viruses are running rampant. School attendance rates are plummeting due to the spread of illness, and some have even closed their campuses to help prevent it from spreading. Even so, both viruses are highly contagious. It is likely your child will catch at least one of them sometime in the year. So, how do you know whether your child has the flu or a cold? Here’s a quick guide to help you identify symptoms and find the best course of action.

Know the difference between the flu and cold

The flu and the cold share similar symptoms, so it can be difficult to determine which one your child may have. Both are viral infections that affect the upper respiratory system, but their effects differ slightly. Keep a close eye on your children and track their symptoms.

Flu symptoms

The flu tends to hit quickly and strongly. The symptoms pile on all at once and generally feel like an amplified version of a cold. People with the flu experience fevers of 101° or higher, have chills, and will often have sore, aching muscles. If your child has a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, dry coughs, nausea, vomiting, and seems lethargic or tired, chances are it’s the flu. This viral infection usually lasts anywhere between 7 to 14 days, and symptoms can linger for much longer. It’s highly contagious and there isn’t anything gradual about it.

Cold symptoms

Colds like to take their time with their symptoms. Your child may complain about a sore throat one day, then two days later they have a runny nose and a cough. These viral infections cause mild fevers, coughing, sneezing, sore throats, and runny noses. If all these symptoms are present, but your child still has the energy to run and play, it’s most likely just a cold. Colds usually only last for 3 to 10 days.

Treatments for the cold and flu

There is no direct cure, but if your child has come down with a cold, there are a few remedies to help them feel better. First of all, keep them hydrated! Water, natural juice, and warm lemon water with honey are great to prevent dehydration. Make sure they get a lot of rest, make them warm soup, and have a humidifier nearby to help with congestion. To reduce pain, ask your doctor about the appropriate dosage of acetaminophen to give your child.

Remedies for the flu are more or less the same. Make sure your child drinks a lot of water. Avoid any kind of soda or sugary drinks, as they can make sore throats worse. Warm soup, lots of rest, and occasional pain medicine will help make the symptoms more bearable. Your doctor may even prescribe some antiviral medication that could reduce the amount of time needed for recovery.

Even if you’re fairly certain you know which virus may be making your kid sick, it’s still a good idea to contact your doctor. There are several different strains of both the flu and cold, and it can be easy to overlook certain symptoms. Other illnesses also share the same symptoms as these two, such as strep throat or pneumonia. If you have any doubts at all, call your child’s doctor to be sure. This is especially important for higher-risk children. The flu can be dangerous and even deadly to kids with asthma, heart conditions, or weak immune systems.

Stop the flu before it happens

The best way to keep your child from catching any strain of the flu is to have them vaccinated. The vaccine is available for all children over 6 months old and can save your child’s life. The flu can lead to more serious issues further down the road, like pneumonia and encephalitis. The CDC has reported 28 flu-related pediatric deaths over the 2018-19 flu season. Don’t take the risk of leaving your child or yourself unprotected.

Looking for a pediatrician in Amarillo, Tx?

Do you need more information about the flu or vaccination to protect your child? Dr. John Young is an experienced pediatrician that is more than willing to answer any questions you may have. Dr. Young and his friendly staff will do everything they can to keep your child happy and healthy. Call us at (806) 354-0404 ext. 3330 or send us an email to learn more about what we can do for you. You can also visit us in person at 1500 S. Coulter St., Suite #3 in Amarillo, Texas.

When To Go To The Pediatrician For Your Child’s Rash

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If your child develops an itchy rash, you both become miserable. Your child will suffer from irritated skin they can’t make go away, and you will feel frustrated at not being able to comfort them. Scratching can spread the area wider, which makes the issue worse.

It is sometimes difficult to determine the cause of a rash. Rashes can appear from allergies, chickenpox, bug bites, plants, and even medical conditions. Knowing how to deal with your child’s outbreak will help handle their discomfort and stop their scratching.

What causes a rash?

The first thing to understand is the cause of the rash. Rashes will often appear as a result of your child’s skin coming into contact with something irritating. Plants like poison ivy instantly trigger a reaction and there are also chemicals that will cause a reaction when applied to the skin.

Certain illnesses will cause a rash reaction. Measles and chickenpox are common childhood diseases that result in severe rashes. You can reduce your child’s risk of developing these diseases with a vaccine. Check with your pediatrician to know the age your child should receive this vital medicine.

Bites from a creature known as the chigger can create large areas of itchy skin. The bites are not just irritating spots but are areas where larvae have latched onto the skin to feed. If your child has been swimming in a damp area with chiggers, a rash can break out that creates intense itching. The bites from this mite can also become infected. There are other mites and insects whose bites leave itchy red rashes on the skin as well.

Allergies are another cause for breakouts to develop on your child’s skin. You may not even be aware your child is allergic to a substance until you see the outbreak. New medications, new foods, or even material items such as soaps or latex gloves can sometimes cause a rash.

How do you stop your child from scratching?

When your child begins to suffer from a rash, your first instinct is to find relief for them. No matter what caused the outbreak, you have to find a way to stop the itch and decrease the risk of it spreading.

You can help ease itching by washing the area with mild soap and patting it dry with a soft towel. Try to keep the space open and do not cover it with clothing or bandages. If you are having difficulty keeping your child from scratching the rash, you can lay a damp washcloth over it to give them some temporary relief. There may also be over-the-counter anti-itch medications that can help.

When should you seek medical attention?

It is often hard to know when a rash is severe enough to need medical attention. There are a few guidelines to help you such as if the outbreak is severe enough to keep your child from participating in their daily activities.

Other signs to watch for when deciding if you should seek your pediatrician’s help include your child being in pain or unable to sleep. If you notice the rash turning into more of a bruise or its color doesn’t fade after three days, your child may need medical help.

If the rash has developed after your child ate a new food or took a new medication, seek medical attention. The pediatrician will be able to see if it is an allergic reaction. You will want to stop giving your child a substance their body cannot handle. If there is a fever associated with the rash, you should consult your doctor as soon as possible.

Pediatricians in Amarillo, Tx

These are guidelines to follow when your child develops a rash. You are the best judge of how serious an issue is affecting your child. If the rash is making them unusually miserable, a visit to your doctor can always be scheduled as a precaution.

Call Dr. John Young today at (806) 354-0404 ext. 3330 or Contact Us by email to learn about our Services, including allergy treatments and vaccinations. Our team provides the best possible experience for you and your child. You can also visit us in person at 1500 S. Coulter St. Suite #3 in Amarillo, Texas if you have any concerns about your child’s health.

The Importance Of Scheduling A Prenatal Visit With A Pediatrician

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It may not be the best idea to wait until you leave the hospital with your baby in your arms to start thinking about a pediatrician. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests that expectant mothers and their families schedule a pediatrician visit before the baby is born. This is an opportunity to address common concerns and questions, such as a concern about immunizations or your own health.

Benefits of visiting with a pediatrician before giving birth

There are many benefits to setting up a pediatrician visit before your baby’s due date. You can concentrate on talking with the doctor about concerns and questions without having to watch your baby at the same time. This type of doctor visit allows the pediatrician to form a picture of the whole family as well. They will ask about medical histories, lifestyles, mental health, high-risk complications, and current medical conditions.

The AAP says that scheduling a prenatal pediatrician visit is especially helpful to first-time parents, new patients, and single parents. Families who have experienced a perinatal death and those who have high-risk pregnancies, multiple gestations, or pregnancy complications can also benefit from early pediatrician visits. Families who are adopting a child may also benefit from this type of doctor visit.

The expectation is that this visit will lay the foundation for a long relationship between your family and the pediatrician. It helps establish trust and address issues that could arise in the future. A pediatrician can also become a needed part of a support network for you and your family.

Considering vaccines

Immunizations are a common concern for expecting mothers, so they should be a subject that you discuss with a pediatrician. Visiting the doctor early gives you time to ask questions and think about the immunizations your child may need. There is much research about vaccines and the protection they offer. All pediatricians follow a standard schedule for immunizations. This was designed to provide the best and safest vaccines at the right time for the most protection.

Immunizations are designed to be spaced out on a specific schedule to make the most of the immunologic response in your child. The guidelines for delivering these vaccines are based on intense study and the best medical research and opinions.

Newborn children only receive one vaccine, so do not get overwhelmed thinking about what he or she will need. Hepatitis B is the only one delivered at the newborn stage. It is often given to your baby before they go home from the hospital or it will be given by your pediatrician soon after birth. Your child will be two months of age before another vaccine is needed.

You and others who will be caring for your baby will need to make sure that you all are up to date on your own vaccines. A pediatrician can help with this step. Caregivers and pregnant women should get the Tdap vaccine to prevent pertussis (whooping cough) and the influenza vaccine (flu).

Preparing for a pediatrician visit

Come to your pediatrician visit ready with questions about any concerns you have. The doctor will gather information about your health history, past pregnancies, your plans for delivery, and how prepared you are to take care of a baby. They may also ask about feeding plans, your support system, how you feel about parenthood, childcare and work schedules, mental health, and lifestyle risk factors.

An issue that has received attention in recent years is the experience that some new mothers have with postpartum mental health complications. A prenatal visit with the pediatrician can give you the opportunity to plan ahead for dealing with this condition if it should trouble you. Being prepared helps you identify your needs and get help from your own doctor or mental health professional when your baby arrives.

Looking for a pediatrician in Amarillo, Texas

Whether it is the issue of vaccines, wellness care, or postpartum depression, a visit to a pediatrician before you give birth is a good choice. Preparing yourself for your new baby is a great way to give both of you a happy start in your new life.

Dr. John M. Young and his team are committed to providing the best clinical experience for you and your child. Contact Us by email or call our office at (806) 354-0404 ext. 3330 to find out more about vaccinations, prenatal and postpartum care, and to schedule an appointment. You can also visit us in person at 1500 S. Coulter St. Suite #3 in Amarillo, Texas to learn more about our Services, including recommended and required vaccines.

Getting Ready For Your Child’s Back-To-School Physical

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Many school districts require a back-to-school physical to ensure all students are up-to-date on immunizations and healthy enough to attend school. This is the time of year for you to schedule your child’s physical so they are ready for the start of the school year. When you plan a well-child visit, your doctor will be able to check your child’s complete health development, including physical, emotional, and even social growth.

What to expect during a back-to-school doctor’s visit

During your child’s checkup, the pediatrician will look for signs of scoliosis. This disease is a curvature of the spine best discovered when a person is young so treatment and correction can begin early. Other areas checked for abnormalities include the nose, ears, skin, mouth, and eyes.

Physical exam

The examination of the nose helps to look for any nasal polyps or any other signs of swelling or infections. Your child’s ears are examined to look for signs of infection and ensure they are clear of wax or other build-ups that may inhibit their hearing.

An exam of your child’s mouth will also tell the doctor about their health. The pediatrician will look for bacterial infections including strep throat and other viral infections. Checking the tongue will show the pediatrician how well hydrated your child is and also give them a chance to look for any abnormal growths.

Your child’s eyes are like a window showing what is going on inside their body. The doctor will perform a routine eye exam to check for liver problems, infections, and other signs your child’s health is at risk.</p.

Blood pressure and heart rate are also checked during the exam to listen to your child’s heart pattern and blood flowing through the heart. The doctor will listen for any extra sounds that could mean a murmur is present.

Developmental exam

Your child’s exam will most likely include a check of their fine and gross motor development along with a test of their reflexes. By tapping the knee with a reflex hammer, the pediatrician can determine if the automatic response from the nerves, spinal cord, and muscles is working.

Weight and height are taken and recorded in a chart to track regular growth patterns. Children who are overweight or have a family history of weight control issues and high cholesterol may also have their cholesterol level checked.

As part of the back-to-school physical, the pediatrician may also question your child about their school performance and if they have difficulty making friends or with socialization. These questions help the doctor understand the psychological and behavioral growth of your child.

There may be a conversation about injury prevention as well. The pediatrician will talk with your child about the importance of wearing helmets and gear to protect themselves if involved in sports activities. Drug and alcohol abuse may also be covered, depending on the age of your child.

How to prepare for a back-to-school physical

When you’ve scheduled your child’s back-to-school health exam, you should create a list of questions you want to go over with the doctor. These questions could be related to nutrition or any family medical issues that may affect your child.

If you have been homeschooling your child, you need to ensure an eye and ear exam are performed. These tests are typically done in the school setting and your doctor may not know your child does not attend school outside the home. Let them know if the test will be done outside their clinic.

When to schedule visits with the pediatrician

It is suggested you maintain a regular schedule of well-child visits for your child. This schedule will ensure your child develops a trusting relationship with the pediatrician so they will be able to track any health issues. Besides knowing the timetable of doctor’s visits based on age, it is good to know when to schedule back-to-school health exams. The best time to do this is in the spring and summer. But, you may be able to get your child in for a visit closer to the time school starts.

Most schools and states require that vaccinations be given to your child before they attend classes. The requirements for the doctor’s visit will vary, so be sure to research what your child will need to go to school. If they play sports, the pediatrician will need to do a sports physical along with the regular exam. The school your child will be attending will be able to tell you what forms and records are needed and about their deadlines.

Choose an experienced pediatrician in Amarillo, Texas

Whether you need a well-child checkup or have other health concerns, Dr. John Young is a dedicated pediatrician with the experience and knowledge to help you and your child. You can call us at (806) 354-0404 ext. 3330 or Contact Us by email to learn more about our Services. You can also visit our office in person at 1500 S. Coulter St., Suite #3 in Amarillo to see how our friendly, knowledgeable staff can help you.

What You Should Know About Your Child’s First Vaccines

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Diseases have decreased substantially since the introduction of vaccines. The threat of disease has not been entirely eliminated, but thanks to vaccines, occurrences are much less frequent. One reason the risk remains is that not all parents vaccinate their children. When fewer babies receive their vaccines, more children can become sick. The following are seven diseases parents can help reduce by their having children vaccinated.

Pertussis

Pertussis, also known as “whooping cough”, is an infection of your child’s respiratory tract and is highly contagious. This disease is severe for babies, toddlers, teens, and even adults, but is entirely preventable with a vaccine. Once you’ve been exposed to Pertussis (and are not vaccinated), you can expect symptoms to develop within five to ten days.

Symptoms begin with a runny nose, low fever, and mild cough. Infants with the disease may experience pauses in their breathing patterns. These symptoms can easily be mistaken for the beginnings of the common cold. Over a short time, the cough becomes more severe and sounds like a deep and harsh “whoop” that can lead to vomiting. If your child contracts Pertussis, the cough could become severe enough to cause exhaustion. This disease can lead to pneumonia, brain damage, seizures, or even death. With the DTaP vaccine, you can prevent your child from contracting this dangerous illness.

Polio

Polio is a severe disease that can lead to paralysis. This virus may be transmitted by water and then spread from person to person. Polio attacks the nervous system and once contracted, it cannot be cured. Polio has not come from the United States since 1979, but it was brought into the US in 1993 by someone who was not vaccinated. It only takes one person with polio to bring this disease back. After the vaccine was created in the 1950s, polio cases have mostly been eliminated. The only way to continue keeping Polio out of the country is to get the vaccine.

Diphtheria

Diphtheria causes inflammation of the mucous membranes and is considered highly contagious. This disease can hinder your child’s breathing and ability to swallow. The disease can also cause nerve damage or fatally damage to your child’s heart. The DTaP vaccine is able to prevent your child from catching this potentially fatal disease.

Haemophilus influenzae b (Hib)

Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) is another disease your child is at risk of without a vaccine. It can cause lifelong disability and in some cases even death. This disease is caused by bacteria and is especially dangerous for children under the age of five. Meningitis is the most common disease caused by Hib. It can cover your child’s spinal cord and brain, causing severe damage. Symptoms of meningitis include confusion, high fever, pain from bright lights, poor appetite, vomiting, reduced alertness, a stiff neck, and headaches. The Hib vaccine is the best option to prevent this disease.

Tetanus

Your child’s best defense against this infection is to receive the DTaP vaccine. Tetanus is a severe infection caused by bacterium that can affect your child’s nervous system and brain. This infection can cause stiffness in the muscles, serious breathing problems, and muscle spasms, and even become fatal.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B infects the liver and often only affects adults for a short time before they recover. This disease can sometimes occur without symptoms and when they do appear, they resemble the flu. It can lead to more serious conditions such as liver damage or even liver cancer. Hepatitis B is a virus that spreads through blood contact and body fluids. A vaccine is necessary to prevent the risk of contracting this disease.

Pneumococcal disease

The pneumococcal disease, also called pneumococcus, is an infection caused by bacterium. This disease can result in an infection of the blood, infection of the middle ear, bacterial meningitis, or pneumonia. Invasive pneumococcal can cause shock and has a risk of death. It can also lead to meningitis or pneumonia, which inflames one or both lungs. Pneumococcus is one of the biggest causes of pneumonia. A vaccine against this disease is the only way to prevent contracting these severe health risks.

Vaccine safety

Some children should not be given vaccines, like those that are mild to severely sick at the time of vaccination. Children who have shown signs of allergies to vaccines in the past, or who are allergic to substances in any vaccine, should not be given certain shots.

Speak with your pediatrician before your child receives their DTaP vaccine and ask about reactions to ensure your child will not have one. The doctor should be able to tell you the risks involved with vaccines, how to spot serious reactions, and what to do if your child is allergic to a vaccine.

Vaccinations in Amarillo, Texas

Dr. John M. Young and his team are committed to providing the best clinical experience for you and your child. Contact Us by email or call our office at (806) 354-0404 ext. 3330 to learn more about vaccinations and to schedule an appointment with us. You can also visit us in person at 1500 S. Coulter St. Suite #3 in Amarillo, Texas to learn more about our Services, including recommended and required Vaccines.

Understanding Vaccines For Your Teenage Or College-Age Child

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Teenage and college-age children have usually had several vaccines by this time in their lives. You are probably still not comfortable watching them get more, even though you have experienced vaccinations with them before. If your teen had no negative reaction from past vaccines, they are unlikely to have them in current and future vaccinations. If they did have a negative reaction to one or more shots, be sure to discuss this with their doctor before they receive any more. It is important to show your teen that you think getting vaccines is an important thing to do. They follow directions from you and need to see that this course of action is necessary.

Some teens have a tendency to faint after a shot or vaccination. It is recommended that they lie down or sit during the administration of a vaccine. Your doctor or the office staff may keep your teen there for about 15 minutes after the vaccination to make sure everything is okay. Knowing the information listed above can help you prepare your teenager or college-age child for their vaccines. The following can also help you know what to do for their next set of shots.

Preparing yourself for your child’s shots

Be sure to bring records of your teen’s past vaccinations with you to the doctor’s office. Usually, vaccines are given after a physical exam and a visit or discussion with the doctor. Ask any questions you have about the vaccines before the office personnel comes in to give the shots. You should also carefully read any paperwork that has been given to you that concerns the vaccines.

Preparing your child for their vaccines

Hopefully, your child does not have any undue stress at this point about vaccines. If your teen is scared of needles, you can try some of the soothing techniques used for younger children. Try blowing on the arm or hand that has been cleaned with rubbing alcohol. Reminding them to relax their muscles may also help.

A child of this age may be more cooperative if you give permission for the vaccine to be administered and then leave the room. Nervous teens may be encouraged to play an electronic game device, listen to music, or have a conversation to help distract them from the vaccination.

After the vaccines have been given

Vaccines might tire your teen out at home after they have been given. The spot on their body where they received the vaccine might be sore as well. If the doctor directed you to give them pain medicine, this might be a good time to give it to them. Try to be understanding and patient if your child is upset. Giving them a cool, moist cloth to hold on the injection site may bring relief. Your teen may be less interested in food over the next 24 hours, so make sure they get plenty of fluids.

Be aware of any reactions that appear after the vaccinations, including rash, unusual behavior, or prolonged fever. If any of these symptoms cause you concern, call the doctor’s office to get information about what to do.

Vaccines that your college-age child might need

Meningococcal vaccines are particularly important for college-age students. This age group has been found to be particularly vulnerable to this illness. A booster dose of tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis vaccine should also be given to protect against each of these serious illnesses. Some believe that your teen should be caught up with all human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccines for the protection against genital warts, cervical, and other cancers. Check with your doctor before your child goes off to college to make sure they are current on all recommended vaccines.

Travel related vaccinations

If your child plans to travel outside the US for any period of time, they should visit a travel clinic before they leave. This type of clinic advises and administers any vaccines needed for the part of the world where they will be visiting.

Find the best pediatrician for vaccinations in Amarillo, Texas

Vaccines are an important part of your child’s health. Just as you monitor their medicines, nutrition, and sleep, make sure they are protected from preventable diseases through timely vaccinations. Your teen’s pediatrician will advise you in this area and can help prepare your college-age child for vaccinations as well.

Dr. John M. Young and his team are committed to providing the best clinical experience for you and your child. Contact Us by email or call our office at (806) 354-0404 ext. 3330 to schedule a vaccination appointment with us today. You can also visit us in person at 1500 S. Coulter St. Suite #3 in Amarillo, Texas to learn more about our Services, including recommended and required vaccinations.

How To Prepare Your Child For Their Vaccinations

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It is possible to have an easier and less stressful visit to a healthcare professional when your child needs vaccinations. Depending on your child’s age, there are a few simple things you can do to achieve a better outcome before, during, and after the appointment. These include preparing before the appointment and comforting them during the visit.

Prepare before your child’s appointment

You and your child will experience less stress if you come prepared for an appointment. Make sure to read all paperwork your health care provider has given you. Write down any questions you have and take them to the appointment. You should be aware of the recommended schedule for childhood immunizations and local school requirements as well. Review vaccination information statements, which can be found at the pediatrician’s office. Also, don’t forget to bring your child’s personal immunization record to the healthcare provider after you have made sure that it is current. This tells the pediatrician which vaccinations your child has already received.

You can be prepared to comfort your child by bringing along a favorite toy, blanket, or book. If your child has a mild illness, check with your doctor to see if there is any reason why they should avoid the shot.

It is important for you to be honest with your child and tell them that vaccinations will give them a little sting or pinching feeling. Tell them that this will not last for long and ask other family members to support your child. You should also avoid making threats about shots or telling scary stories about them. Remember to tell your child about the health benefits of getting vaccinations as well.

Handing vaccinations with babies or young children

If you have a baby or small child, try distracting them by cuddling, talking softly to them, or singing. Let them know everything is okay and make sure to make eye contact with them. You can also comfort them with a familiar object from home. If possible, hold your child on your lap and be very supportive once your child has had their shot. Swaddle babies, provide skin to skin contact, offer a sweet drink like juice, or breastfeed to show them everything is normal.

Giving vaccinations to older children

You can help an older child handle the slight pain from a shot by taking deep breaths with them. Distractions are helpful, such as pointing out interesting things in the room or telling a story. You should never scold your child if they cry or shame them for not being brave. It is possible, and common, for an adolescent to faint after their vaccination. Your child should stay in a sitting position for 15 minutes after the shot to prevent this from happening. You may want to ask your healthcare provider about giving your child a pain reliever after the vaccination or advice about further comforting them.

What to expect after vaccinations are administered

It is possible for your child to have a small reaction after the shot, such as fever, pain at the injection site, or a rash. These are normal side effects that can be easily minimized. You can review the vaccine literature given to you by the healthcare provider to be aware of side effects. A cool, wet cloth provides comfort and relief from soreness, swelling, or redness. Non-aspirin pain reliever and a cool sponge bath can bring down a fever.

Make sure your child gets enough water to drink after the shot. You should also know that they may not have a normal appetite for up to 24 hours after the vaccine is given. Pay special attention to your child for a few days after their visit and contact the doctor if something seems wrong.

Where to go for vaccinations and how to pay for them

Your health insurance will most likely pay for your child’s vaccinations. However, you may want to call the customer service department to verify the pediatrician of your choice is covered by your insurance. If you do not have insurance or your plan does not cover the shots, ask your pediatrician about other options. Another place you could check is the local health department. They will be able to tell you if there are any public health clinics in your area that give eligible people free vaccines.

Find the best pediatrician for vaccinations in Amarillo, Texas

If your child is in need of vaccinations, you should contact a pediatrician you can trust. Dr. John M. Young is committed to providing the best clinical experience for you and your child. Contact Us by email or call our office at (806) 354-0404 ext. 3330 to schedule an appointment with us today. You can also visit us in person at 1500 S. Coulter St. Suite #3 in Amarillo, Texas to learn more about our services, including recommended and required vaccinations.

Flu Vaccine Update

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We have received our first shipment of influenza vaccine.  Unfortunately, there will be no FluMist available this year — due to concerns that it was not effective last year, the manufacturer has suspended production.

Visit the CDC website (CDC 2016-2017 Flu Season) to gain further information on why the FluMist is unavailable and how you can protect your child from the virus this flu season.

We will have our first influenza clinic on October 1st, 2016.  Please call the office to schedule a specific time to come to the office.  We will have more weekend days, during the month of October, but they have not yet been scheduled.  It is also possible to have influenza vaccination done on many office visits, including those for well checkups, injuries, and viral infections.

– Dr. Young

Trumenba Meningococcal Vaccine

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Meningococcal bacteria can cause an infection which often includes meningitis and damage throughout the body.  Although meningococcal infections are rare, they can be very damaging and deadly.  Serotypes of meningococcus which infect children and adolescents include A, B, C, W, and Y.  The meningococcal vaccine routinely given in our office, Menactra, protects against serotypes A, C, W, and Y.  A newer vaccine available in our office, Trumenba, protects against serotype B.  Here is the CDC discussion on meningococcal vaccines:

http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd-vac/mening/

Menactra is recommended by the CDC for all adolescents, and it is required for admission by colleges and universities.  Trumenba is only recommended by the CDC for adolescents with specific immunodeficiencies, specific hematologic abnormalities, and a non-functioning or absent spleen.  However, it has been found by the FDA to be both safe and effective.  Adding Trumenba to Menactra would give the most complete protection possible for your adolescent.  Unfortunately, since it is not recommended for all adolescents by the CDC, it is not routinely covered by insurance.  Here is a list of the 5 college outbreaks of Meningococcal B infection since 2013:

http://www.nmaus.org/disease-prevention-information/serogroup-b-meningococcal-disease/outbreaks/

If you are interested in the vaccine, check with your insurance.  If it is not covered and you want your adolescent immunized, please call the office to learn the cost of administration.  Trumenba is administered in a 3 dose series at 0, 2, and 6 months.

Dr. Young