Childhood Diseases Not Just a Problem in Developing Countries As New Parents Fail to Be Fully Vaccinated Before Their New Babies Arrive
Austin, TX (PRWEB) April 21, 2014 -- The best way to protect infants from diseases such as Pertussis and Influenza is to vaccinate everyone around the baby, including pregnant women and family members, says Dr. Katalenas, pediatrician in Austin, Texas.
Influenza can cause serious complications such as pneumonia which can be fatal in young infants or at least cost them a hospitalization; and estimates from WHO [World Health Organization] suggest that about 16 million cases of pertussis occurr worldwide, 95% of which were in developing countries, and that about 195,000 children died from the disease.
Dr. Katalenas recommends vaccinating the pregnant mothers. While there are some vaccines that are not recommended during pregnancy, two that are proven safe and recommended during your pregnancy are the vaccines against Influenza and Pertussis (Whooping Cough).
Infants cannot begin the series of immunizations for Pertussis until 2 months of age and are not candidates for the Influenza vaccine until 6 months of age. The best protection for young infants is immunization of people who will be exposed to the baby.
If you do get the flu, follow these important steps to minimize exposure to others:
Visit your healthcare provider. Antiviral medications which are different from antibiotics may help your symptoms.
Minimize contact with your infant as much as possible.
Cover nose and mouth with a tissue when sneezing or coughing and dispose of used tissues immediately.
Wash hands frequently or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially when about to come in contact with your infant.
You should follow these precautions for the first 5 to 7 days of your illness.
In an article from Pediatric Center of Round Rock pediatrician, Dr. Crystal Salinas, she states that "The most effective way to prevent your young infant against getting these diseases is to get vaccinated yourself and encourage family members to do the same". Dr. Salinas shares more information about how important it is for a mother to have all their vaccinations before the arrival of a new baby at http://www.pediatriccenterofroundrock.com.
About Dr. Katalenas
Dr. Marta Katalenas is a board certified pediatrician and owner of the Pediatric Center of Round Rock. She is a public speaker and author of the book "The Step Up Diet: From Scratch… The Quality, Quantity, and Timing Solution to Childhood Obesity", a guide to healthy cooking and eating for busy families.
Melissa Shea, Pediatric Center of Round Rock, http://www.pediatriccenterofroundrock.com/, +1 (512) 799-0217, [email protected]
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