Whooping Cough: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

Whooping cough, or pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by the bacteria Bordetella pertussis. It affects the lining of the airways, causing severe coughing fits that can last for weeks or even months. While cases can occur year-round, infections tend to increase in late summer and fall.

At The Children's Clinic in Jackson, TN, we are committed to providing families with the knowledge and tools to protect their children from this preventable illness. Here’s what you need to know about whooping cough, including its symptoms, treatment options, and prevention strategies.

Why Whooping Cough Cases Are Rising

Historically, whooping cough cases decreased significantly with the introduction of the pertussis vaccine. However, in recent years, cases have been on the rise. This resurgence can be attributed to several factors:

• Waning vaccine protection: Immunity from the pertussis vaccine diminishes over time, leaving individuals vulnerable.

• Vaccinated carriers: While the vaccine protects against severe illness, it doesn’t always prevent infection, allowing vaccinated individuals to spread the disease.

• Bacteria evolution: The Bordetella pertussis bacteria may be adapting, reducing vaccine effectiveness.

• Pandemic-related vaccine delays: Many children fell behind on vaccinations during the COVID-19 pandemic, and immunization rates remain lower than pre-pandemic levels.

Now more than ever, it’s crucial to stay up-to-date on vaccinations to protect children and communities.

Symptoms of Whooping Cough

The symptoms of whooping cough can vary depending on a child’s age, vaccination status, and overall health.

• In older children and adults:
  The infection often begins with cold-like symptoms, including a runny nose, mild cough, and low-grade fever. After about one to two weeks, severe coughing fits may develop, often accompanied by a distinctive “whooping” sound when inhaling. The coughing stage can last several weeks, and symptoms may persist or return with future respiratory infections.

• In infants under one year old:
  Symptoms can differ and may include difficulty breathing, pauses in breathing (apnea), or vomiting after coughing. Infants are at the highest risk for serious complications, including pneumonia, seizures, or even death.

When to Call Your Pediatrician

Seek medical care immediately if:

• Your child has been exposed to someone with whooping cough or has an unresolved chronic cough.

• Coughing episodes cause exhaustion, difficulty breathing, or a bluish tint around the lips or fingertips.

• Your child vomits after coughing or shows signs of poor eating and overall illness.

Treatment for Whooping Cough

Whooping cough is treated with antibiotics, which are most effective when started early, ideally before the severe coughing begins. While antibiotics can prevent the spread of infection, they do not stop the coughing spells. Your pediatrician may recommend supportive home care to manage symptoms.

To prevent spreading the infection, children should stay home from school or child care until they’ve completed at least five days of antibiotics. Family members or close contacts may also need preventative antibiotics, even if vaccinated.

Preventing Whooping Cough

The best defense against whooping cough is vaccination. The pertussis vaccine is given as part of the DTaP and Tdap immunization schedules.

• For younger children: The DTaP vaccine is given at 2, 4, and 6 months, with additional doses at 12-18 months and 4-6 years.

• For older children: A Tdap booster is recommended at ages 11-12.

• For adults: Caregivers, family members, and anyone in close contact with infants under one year should receive a Tdap booster to prevent transmission.

• For pregnant women: A Tdap vaccine is recommended during the third trimester of each pregnancy. This not only protects the mother but also provides short-term immunity to the baby.

Remember

Whooping cough is highly contagious and can have serious consequences, especially for infants. Vaccination is the most effective way to protect against severe illness and reduce the spread of pertussis.

At The Children's Clinic in Jackson, TN, we’re here to answer your questions and provide the care your child needs to stay healthy. Contact us to ensure your child’s immunizations are up to date and to learn more about protecting your family from whooping cough.

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Understanding Foodborne Illness in Children: Prevention and Care

Each year, around 48 million people in the United States experience food poisoning, or foodborne illness, due to bacteria, viruses, parasites, or toxins that contaminate our food. These harmful microbes can enter foods before they reach our homes or during improper handling or cooking, leading to isolated family cases or even widespread outbreaks.

Recognizing Food Poisoning Symptoms

Food poisoning symptoms often resemble other intestinal issues, including stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fever. However, if your child and others who ate the same food experience these symptoms, it’s likely due to food poisoning. Common sources include raw or undercooked foods, processed meats, unpasteurized dairy, raw produce, raw seeds and sprouts, and honey. Baby formula can also occasionally be contaminated.

Common Germs Causing Food Poisoning

Salmonella

Salmonella is a leading cause of foodborne illness in the U.S., found mainly in raw meats (like chicken), undercooked eggs, and unpasteurized milk. Proper cooking can kill Salmonella. Symptoms usually appear between 6 and 48 hours after consumption and can last up to 7 days.

E. coli

Certain strains of E. coli bacteria, commonly found in undercooked ground beef, raw produce, and contaminated water, can cause severe intestinal illness. Symptoms include diarrhea (sometimes severe), abdominal pain, and nausea. Rest and fluids are recommended, though severe cases should be evaluated by a pediatrician.

Recent Outbreak Alert: In October 2024, the CDC warned about potential E. coli contamination in McDonald’s Quarter Pounder hamburgers. This outbreak has affected multiple states, with reported cases, hospitalizations, and one fatality. Be cautious and consult reliable sources for updates.

Staphylococcus aureus (Staph)

Staph bacteria, which cause skin infections, can also contaminate food through improper handling. When food isn’t kept hot enough, Staph bacteria can grow and produce toxins that cooking cannot destroy. Symptoms start within 1 to 6 hours of consumption and typically last a day.

Clostridium perfringens

Often found in foods served in large quantities at room temperature, like cafeteria food, C. perfringens can thrive in cooked beef, poultry, gravy, casseroles, and stews. Symptoms typically start 6 to 24 hours after eating and can last for several days.

Shigella (Shigellosis)

Shigella infections spread through contaminated food, water, and poor hygiene practices. Symptoms include diarrhea, fever, and cramps, appearing within 1 to 3 days after exposure. Extra fluids and, in severe cases, antibiotics may be recommended.

Campylobacter

Campylobacter, found in raw chicken, unpasteurized milk, and contaminated water, can cause diarrhea, cramps, and fever. Diagnosis requires a stool sample, and hydration is key, although severe cases may need antibiotics.

Botulism

A rare but serious form of food poisoning, botulism stems from Clostridium botulinum bacteria, which can contaminate improperly canned foods, especially low-acid vegetables. Honey can also carry the bacteria and is dangerous for infants under 1 year. Botulism symptoms include double vision, droopy eyelids, and muscle weakness. Without prompt treatment, botulism can be fatal.

Cryptosporidiosis

This infection, caused by Cryptosporidium, can result in watery diarrhea, fever, and abdominal pain. Though rare, it can be a concern for children with weakened immune systems.

Other Food Poisoning Sources

Poisonous mushrooms, fish, and certain seasonings can also cause food poisoning. If you suspect your child has eaten contaminated or unusual foods and experiences symptoms, contact your pediatrician promptly.

Treatment for Food Poisoning

Most children recover on their own with rest and brief breaks from eating and drinking. Call your pediatrician if symptoms persist, especially if your child shows signs of dehydration, has bloody diarrhea, high fever, or unusual neurological symptoms. Treatment may involve fluids, and in some cases, antibiotics or antihistamines, depending on the cause.

Prevention is Key

To protect your family, The Children’s Clinic in Jackson, TN, recommends following basic food safety practices. Always talk to your pediatrician if you have questions about food poisoning, recognizing symptoms, or prevention strategies. With the right precautions, foodborne illness can often be avoided, keeping your family safe and healthy.

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Understanding Inherited High Cholesterol in Children: Essential Insights for Families

For families at The Children’s Clinic in Jackson, TN, it’s essential to recognize that cholesterol issues aren’t limited to adults. In fact, approximately 1 in 250 children have high cholesterol due to a genetic condition rather than lifestyle, diet, or exercise.

This condition, known as familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), puts these children at risk for early heart disease—even if they lead active, healthy lives. Here’s what families need to know about FH, especially the more severe form that can be life-threatening for children and teens.

Cholesterol and Your Child’s Health

Cholesterol is a natural substance found in every cell of the body, playing a vital role in hormone production and cellular health. While the liver naturally regulates cholesterol levels, animal products like dairy and meat add extra cholesterol. In children with FH, however, a genetic mutation disrupts the body’s ability to process cholesterol properly, leading to a buildup of LDL ("bad") cholesterol in the arteries from birth. This buildup can result in heart attacks or strokes early in life.

A Common but Often Unknown Health Risk

For many families, FH is unfamiliar territory. Millions live with FH globally, yet only about 30% are aware of their condition. FH comes in two forms based on how the gene mutation is inherited.

Types of Familial Hypercholesterolemia (FH)

1. Heterozygous FH (HeFH): The more common form, where a child inherits one abnormal copy of the FH gene from a parent. Approximately 1 in 250 people have HeFH.

2. Homozygous FH (HoFH): A rare and severe form that occurs when a child inherits an abnormal copy from both parents, requiring immediate treatment.

The Importance of Early Detection

While FH may sound intimidating, early detection and treatment can reduce heart disease risks by up to 80%. Start by knowing your family’s health history. Inform your child’s pediatrician of any early heart attacks in close relatives or instances of high cholesterol and coronary artery disease.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends cholesterol screening for children without family risk between ages 9 and 11, but for those with potential genetic risks, screening can start as early as age 2. Elevated LDL levels, especially over 160 mg/dL, may indicate FH. Children with HoFH may show extreme levels above 400 mg/dL.

Signs Parents Should Know

In some cases, children with HoFH may develop visible cholesterol deposits called xanthomas or xanthelasmas near the elbows, legs, fingers, or eyes. If you notice these, inform your pediatrician.

Understanding HoFH

HoFH is rare but serious, affecting about 1 in 300,000 people worldwide. It can cause cholesterol buildup severe enough to trigger heart attacks in adolescence or earlier. If your child is diagnosed with HoFH, it’s crucial to remember that this condition isn’t caused by diet or lifestyle factors.

Developing a Treatment Plan

Modern treatments provide multiple avenues for managing FH. The Children’s Clinic in Jackson, TN, offers specialized resources to help your child maintain a heart-healthy lifestyle. A treatment plan might include:

• Statins: Drugs that help lower cholesterol production and clear excess cholesterol.

• Non-Statin Medications: Targeted treatments that work with the liver and digestive system.

• Lipoprotein Apheresis: A weekly procedure that filters LDL cholesterol from the blood.

Alongside these treatments, adopting a heart-healthy diet, staying active, and avoiding tobacco are essential. A dietitian can help you plan meals that support your child’s health and fit your family’s preferences.

Building a Family Support System

Your child’s treatment plan will involve family-wide support. Starting new health routines can be challenging, so don’t hesitate to ask the healthcare team for assistance. Encourage healthy sleep, regular meals, and family activities to ease this transition.

Screening siblings and extended family members is also crucial. With early intervention, individuals with FH can achieve cholesterol levels similar to those in the general population, leading to a healthier future for your family.

The Children’s Clinic in Jackson, TN, is here to support you every step of the way, from early diagnosis to long-term care.

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Pneumonia in Children: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention

Understanding Pneumonia

Pneumonia, an infection in the lungs, was once a serious concern for children. Fortunately, with today’s medical advancements, most kids recover fully with timely treatment. Here’s what you need to know about the causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention of pneumonia in children.

Mycoplasma Pneumoniae Infections on the Rise

Recently, there’s been an uptick in Mycoplasma pneumoniae infections, especially among children. This type of bacteria often leads to mild respiratory illness and can cause "walking pneumonia," a less severe form of pneumonia that doesn’t usually require hospitalization.

Causes of Pneumonia

Most pneumonia cases begin after a viral infection in the upper respiratory tract. Sometimes, bacteria can also cause pneumonia or add to an existing viral infection, leading to a secondary infection. This illness tends to spread in close-contact environments, making it more common during fall, winter, and early spring when children spend more time indoors.

Recognizing Pneumonia Symptoms

Children with pneumonia often experience fever, which can lead to sweating, chills, flushed skin, and general discomfort. Additionally, they might lose their appetite and show reduced energy levels. Infants and toddlers may appear pale, limp, or unusually fussy. Breathing issues are also common and may include:

• Persistent cough

• Rapid or labored breathing

• Skin pulling in between the ribs or around the breastbone

• Nostril flaring

• Chest pain, especially when coughing or breathing deeply

• Wheezing

• Pale, gray, or bluish lips or nails, indicating low oxygen levels

A physician can often diagnose pneumonia through a physical exam and assessing symptoms, though a chest X-ray may sometimes be needed to confirm it and check lung involvement.

Risk Factors for Pneumonia

Certain health conditions can make children more vulnerable to pneumonia, such as weakened immune systems or lung issues like cystic fibrosis, asthma, or cancer. Children with structural abnormalities in their airways or lungs may also have an increased risk.

Treating Pneumonia

For viral pneumonia, rest and fever management are usually the main treatments, as viral infections don’t respond to antibiotics. Cough suppressants are generally avoided to allow coughing to clear lung secretions. Symptoms of viral pneumonia often improve within days, though a lingering cough may persist.

Since it can be challenging to distinguish between bacterial and viral pneumonia, pediatricians may prescribe antibiotics if they suspect bacterial infection. It’s crucial to complete the entire prescribed course, even if your child feels better, to ensure the infection doesn’t return.

Follow up with your pediatrician if your child experiences any of the following:

• Persistent fever despite antibiotics

• Fever that temporarily subsides but returns

• Difficulty breathing

• Excessive fatigue or sleepiness

• Symptoms indicating infection elsewhere, such as joint pain, neck stiffness, vomiting, or other unusual signs

Preventing Pneumonia with Vaccination

Vaccination can protect your child from Streptococcus pneumoniae, a common bacterial cause of pneumonia. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine for children, starting with doses at 2, 4, 6, and 12-15 months. This vaccine is often given alongside other standard childhood vaccines.

For children ages 2 to 5 who missed earlier doses, ask your pediatrician about a catch-up schedule. Additionally, older children with conditions like sickle cell anemia, heart or lung disease, or a weakened immune system may benefit from a different pneumococcal vaccine, which is recommended for those at higher risk.

Vaccination is a powerful way to protect children from pneumonia and other respiratory infections, supporting their health as they grow.

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Halloween Tips for a Safe and Fun Holiday

Halloween is a magical time full of costumes and candy, but it also comes with extra safety concerns for children. Did you know that Halloween is one of the riskiest nights for child pedestrian injuries? Here are some helpful tips to keep your little ones safe while they enjoy the holiday.

Trick-or-Treating Safety Tips

Street Smarts for Trick-or-Treaters:

• Stay Close to Little Ones: Always accompany young children while they’re out trick-or-treating. If your area starts trick-or-treating after dark, look into community events or earlier activities, which can help keep little ones safe and in their regular bedtime routine.

• Plan Routes for Older Kids: If older kids are going alone, make sure they follow a pre-planned route, set a return time, and carry a flashlight.

• Avoid Distracted Walking: Remind kids to keep phones away while walking, stay aware of their surroundings, and cross streets at designated crosswalks.

• Use Sidewalks and Stay Visible: Stick to well-lit streets and use sidewalks. If no sidewalk is available, walk on the far side facing traffic. Only approach homes with porch lights on.

For Teen Drivers:
If your teen is driving on Halloween, discuss safety expectations and consider using a Parent-Teen Driving Agreement to set clear rules.

Staying Safe Around Strangers

• Buddy System for Older Kids: Encourage older kids to travel in groups and to have a buddy to help them stay safe.

• Don’t Enter Homes or Cars: Remind kids never to enter a home or car for treats. Report suspicious activity to local authorities.

• Emergency Contact: Teach kids how to call 9-1-1 or your local emergency number if they need help or get lost.

Preparing Your Home for Trick-or-Treaters

• Clear Pathways: Remove any potential tripping hazards, such as hoses or toys, from the yard and walkway.

• Brighten Up: Check and replace any burnt-out outdoor lights.

• Keep Pets Safe: Keep pets away from trick-or-treaters to prevent accidental jumps or bites.

Costume Safety

• Bright and Reflective Costumes: Incorporate reflective tape or glow-in-the-dark items into costumes and treat bags for added visibility.

• Watch the Fit: Ensure costumes are the right length to prevent tripping, and choose shoes that fit well.

• Flame-Resistant Fabrics: Look for costumes labeled "flame resistant," especially for wigs and accessories, and keep costumes away from open flames.

• Consider Makeup Instead of Masks: Non-toxic makeup and decorative hats can be safer than masks, which can obstruct vision. Test makeup on a small patch of skin first to check for any allergies.

• Skip Sharp Accessories: Avoid sharp props or long accessories that could cause injuries if tripped over.

Pumpkin Carving Tips

• Safe Carving for Kids: Let younger children draw their designs with markers while an adult does the carving. Kids can help by scooping out seeds and pulp.

• Use Flameless Lighting: Consider a battery-operated light for jack-o'-lanterns instead of candles, which can be a fire hazard.

• Avoid High-Traffic Areas for Lit Pumpkins: If you use real candles, keep the pumpkins away from pathways and never leave them unattended.

Healthy Halloween Tips

• Consider Non-Food Treats: Non-edible goodies are great for kids with allergies. The Teal Pumpkin Project suggests fun items like glow sticks, stickers, and bouncy balls.

• Check Treats First: Wait until kids are home to inspect treats. Throw away any items that are unwrapped, spoiled, or suspicious.

• Choking Hazards: Avoid giving young children hard candy, gum, popcorn, or small toys that can be choking hazards.

• Teach Moderation: Try to create a treat plan with your child for after Halloween. Use this as a chance to talk about balance and healthy indulgence.