The New RSV Immunization for Infants – What Parents Should Know

As parents, it’s natural to worry about your child’s health. The new RSV vaccine offers peace of mind, knowing that you’re taking proactive steps to safeguard your child against a potentially serious illness.

What is RSV

Respiratory Syncytial Virus, or RSV, is a common virus that can cause severe respiratory infections for some infants and young children. It is a highly contagious virus that affects the respiratory tract, particularly in infants and young children.

RSV is spread by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the mouth and nose. Symptoms for RSV can range from mild cold-like symptoms to more severe respiratory infections, such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia. In some cases, RSV infections can become life-threatening, especially for premature infants and babies with weakened immune systems.

The New RSV Shot

A new, single-injection shot aimed at protecting babies from RSV was recently approved by the FDA. Both the CDC and the American Academy of Pediatricsrsv vaccine container. advise that all babies under 8 months and high-risk children under 19 months receive the new approved drug called nirsevimab, and marketed as Beyfortus, before or during their first RSV season (November through March).

Benefits of the New RSV Immunization

Preventing Severe Illness: The primary benefit of the new RSV vaccine is its potential to prevent severe respiratory infections caused by the virus. By vaccinating your child, you’re reducing the risk of them experiencing the most serious symptoms of RSV, which can lead to hospitalization.

Protection for High-Risk Infants: Premature infants, babies with congenital heart disease, and those with chronic lung conditions are at a higher risk of developing severe RSV infections. The vaccine offers crucial protection for these vulnerable infants, helping to shield them from potentially devastating complications.

Have questions? Talk to your provider at Pediatric Associates, Inc

It’s natural for parents to have questions and concerns about any new vaccine.

Before making the decision to immunize your child against RSV, it’s important to consult with your pediatrician. They can provide you with accurate, up-to-date information, address any concerns you may have, and help you make an informed decision about your child’s healthcare.

 

Children Behavioral Health Care in Columbus, OH

Behavioral health concerns?  Pediatric Associates, Inc. has your back!  Did you know we have an entire TEAM for this?  In addition to your pediatrician and nurse practitioner, we also have behavioral health clinicians, phone triage nurses, care coordinators, and referral specialists all on staff at Pediatric Associates, Inc.

We know that all kids and families experience stress, and sometimes we all need a little extra support or skills to get through these tough times.  At Pediatric Associates, Inc., your pediatrician is mental health provider speaking with a child.always a great place to start to help figure out what your family needs when it comes to behavioral, emotional, and social concerns.  In addition, your pediatrician may recommend involving one of our behavioral health clinicians, care coordinators, or referral specialists in your child’s care.  Our TEAM is here for you!

Urgent mental health concerns? Call us first!  During normal business hours, our phone triage nurses are available to help talk through your concerns, make recommendations, and schedule follow-up visits.  When possible, seeing us in the office is typically faster and less expensive than other options for urgent/emergency services. Outside of business hours or if you’re unable to reach our staff immediately, here is a list of resources available in your community:  988 (National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline), 614-722-1800 (Local Youth Crisis Line), 614-276-2273 (Local Adult Crisit Line), 888-418-6777 (Mobile Response and Stabilization Services), or Text “HOME” to 741-741.

 

What is a behavioral health clinician? A behavioral health clinician is a provider who is specially trained to help kids, teens, individuals, and families with concerns about emotions, behavior, parenting, health habits, attention, psychological factors impacting medical conditions, and adjustment to stress.  Behavioral health clinicians at Pediatric Associates, Inc. provide brief interventions, as needed over the years your child is being cared for by our team.  They are licensed as social workers, counselors, and psychologists and collaborate closely with your pediatrician and nurse practitioner.

What is a care coordinator? A care coordinator is a healthcare professional who helps manage and coordinate your child’s treatment plan.  They can help educate you on your child’s needs and can help connect you with other health professionals, as needed.

What is a referral specialist? A referral specialist is a staff member who can assist you and your providers in linking you with other health professionals in the community.  They can also help you navigate insurance as you choose outside specialists needed for your child’s care.

Online behavioral health resources:

Parenting handouts & book recommendations: https://kidzdoc.com/for-parents/parenting-tips-and-resources/
Mental health information and online tools: https://kidzdoc.com/for-parents/childrens-behavioral-health-and-behavior-disorders/

We are honored to care for your child and strive to provide the best team-based care your child deserves!

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