The Risk of Febrile Seizures

About 2–5% of young children (between 200 and 500 per 10,000) will experience at least one febrile seizure. These typically occur between 6 and 60 months of age, with the peak between 14 and 18 months. This timeframe overlaps with when the first doses of MMR and varicella are recommended.

Although febrile seizures are usually harmless and have an excellent prognosis, they can be frightening for parents to witness. With this in mind, our practice has always chosen to give the MMR and varicella vaccines as separate shots at the 12-month checkup. This approach helps reduce the potential risk of febrile seizures while still ensuring children are fully protected.

MMRV (ProQuad) for Older Children

When children are older—such as at ages 4–6 years—or receiving their second dose, the data shows no increased risk of febrile seizures with MMRV (ProQuad) compared to separate shots. Because of this, we recommend and use MMRV (ProQuad) for kindergarten vaccines at Community Choice Pediatrics.

Our Approach at CCP

• At 12 months: Separate MMR and varicella shots
• At 4–6 years (kindergarten vaccines): MMRV (ProQuad) preferred

This approach ensures children receive the safest and most effective protection at the right time. If you have questions about your child’s vaccine schedule, our providers are here to provide clear, evidence-based guidance.

👉 Contact us to learn more about vaccines at CCP

***Update 9-26-2025***

Recently, information was provided that indicated the MMR vaccine should be administered in multiple doses to ensure full immunization against measles, mumps, and rubella. It is important to note that the MMR vaccine is not available as separate shots for each disease; rather, it is formulated as a combined vaccine. This means that individuals receiving the MMR vaccine will be protected against all three illnesses through a single injection, repeated as necessary according to recommended dosing schedules.

The post Understanding MMRV (ProQuad) and Vaccine Choices at Different Ages appeared first on Community Choice Pediatrics.

With just a few smart habits, families can enjoy all the fun of summer while keeping kids safe, healthy, and feeling their best.

Why Hydration Matters

Children are more likely than adults to become dehydrated during hot weather. Their bodies don’t regulate heat as well, and they may not realize they’re thirsty until it’s too late. Active play, especially in the sun, causes them to sweat and lose fluids faster, which can lead to dehydration if those fluids aren’t replaced.

Generally, children aged 4 to 8 need about five cups of water per day, while older children and teens need between seven and eight cups, more if they’re active or in hot weather. Encourage kids to drink water regularly, not just when they feel thirsty. Younger children may need reminders, while older kids might respond well to having their own water bottles to refill and carry. If plain water doesn’t appeal, try adding a slice of lemon, cucumber, or a few berries to make it more interesting.

If your child is doing prolonged physical activity or shows early signs of heat stress, drinking a pediatrician-approved electrolyte drink or oral rehydration solution may be helpful. These can help replace lost salts and fluids more effectively than plain water.

Watch for signs that your child might be dehydrated. These can include dry lips or mouth, fewer wet diapers or trips to the bathroom, headaches, dizziness, crankiness, or unusual tiredness. If you notice these symptoms, have your child rest in the shade and drink fluids immediately.

More serious signs—like rapid breathing, confusion, fainting, or hot, dry skin—could indicate heat stroke, a medical emergency. If you suspect heat stroke, seek immediate medical attention.

Helping Kids Play Safely Outdoors

In addition to hydration, injury prevention is essential to keeping kids safe during outdoor fun. Summer injuries often come from falls, bike accidents, bug bites, and active play gone a little too far.

Playgrounds are a favorite summer hangout, but they can also be the source of bumps and bruises. Make sure your child plays on age-appropriate equipment and wears closed-toe shoes for better grip. Visiting parks with soft surfaces like rubber or mulch can help cushion falls and reduce the risk of injury. As always, supervision is key, especially for younger children.

Bikes, scooters, and skateboards offer freedom and fun, but helmets are a must. A properly fitted helmet should sit level across the forehead, not wobble, and fasten securely under the chin. Helmets certified by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) offer the best protection. They are required for riders under age 18 in many areas.

Bug bites are another common summer issue. In most cases, they’re a minor annoyance, but some children may react more strongly. Use a child-safe insect repellent and check for ticks after playing in grassy or wooded areas. If a bite leads to swelling of the lips or face, hives, or difficulty breathing, call your doctor or visit urgent care immediately—these are signs of an allergic reaction.

Sprains, scrapes, and cuts are part of active play, especially when kids run around uneven surfaces or play barefoot. Keep a simple first-aid kit handy with bandages, antiseptic wipes, antibiotic ointment, and tweezers for splinters or ticks. Clean any wounds immediately and monitor them for signs of infection, like redness or swelling.

Knowing When to Call the Doctor

Most summer scrapes and mild dehydration can be handled at home. But if your child can’t hold down fluids, has trouble breathing, shows signs of a heat-related illness, or seems unusually tired or confused, don’t wait to get care.

Community Choice Pediatrics offers Walk-in Care seven days a week, so you don’t need to wait for an appointment when something unexpected happens. Whether it’s a heat rash, a sprained ankle, or a concerning bug bite, we’re here to help—quickly and compassionately.

Enjoying a Safe, Healthy Summer

Summer should be filled with sunshine, exploration, and fun, not stress or preventable injuries. With some planning and simple habits, you can help your child enjoy every moment while staying safe and well. And don’t forget, this is also a great time to schedule your child’s annual physical or back-to-school immunizations before the rush in August.

At Community Choice Pediatrics, we’re here to support your family with trusted care, flexible hours, and expert advice every step of the way. When kids are healthy and parents feel confident, summer becomes everything it should be.

The post Summer Safety & Hydration: Keeping Kids Healthy During Outdoor Play appeared first on Community Choice Pediatrics.

What is Measles?
Measles is a highly contagious virus that can lead to serious health complications, especially in young children. It spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, and the virus can linger in a room for up to two hours—even after the person has left.

What Are the Symptoms?
Early symptoms may feel like a cold—fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. A few days later, a telltale rash appears, usually starting on the face and spreading down the body. If you suspect your child may have been exposed or is showing symptoms, call us right away.

Why Vaccination Matters
The MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, and rubella) is a safe and effective way to prevent measles. The CDC recommends two doses: the first at 12–15 months and the second at 4–6 years old. Vaccination not only protects your child but also helps keep our entire community healthier together.

Want to Learn More?
For trusted information, check out these helpful resources from our partners:

• Children’s Mercy: What Parents Should Know About Measles

• Measles FAQ for Parents and Families – Peds Pandemic Network

At Community Choice Pediatrics, we believe empowered parents make confident decisions. If you have questions or concerns about measles or vaccines, we’re here to help.

Together, we’re healthier. 💙

The post What Parents Need to Know About Measles — And How to Protect Your Family appeared first on Community Choice Pediatrics.

Common Winter Illnesses in Children

Wintertime illnesses in children are often viral, but some can be bacterial. Understanding these common winter ailments can help you identify symptoms early.

• Colds: Colds are one of the most frequent winter illnesses, marked by sneezing, a runny nose, mild fever, and congestion. Though they’re usually mild, colds can make kids feel pretty miserable.
• Flu (Influenza): The flu can hit hard and fast, bringing fever, chills, body aches, and fatigue. Kids with the flu may have less energy and may need extra rest to recover.
• RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus): RSV affects the respiratory tract and is most serious for infants and younger children. It can cause wheezing, coughing, and difficulty breathing, so monitoring symptoms closely is important.
• Strep Throat: Strep throat is a bacterial infection that brings a severe sore throat, fever, and swollen glands. It requires antibiotic treatment, so check with your pediatrician if these symptoms appear.
• Ear Infections: Ear infections often follow colds and can cause ear pain, fever, and irritability. These infections are more common in young children because of their smaller ear anatomy.

Preventive Tips to Keep Kids Healthy

To help your child avoid winter illnesses, encourage good hygiene, healthy habits, and preventive care.

• Handwashing: Make handwashing a priority. Encourage your child to wash their hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after school, playtime, and before eating.
• Vaccinations: The flu vaccine is highly recommended each winter to help prevent severe flu symptoms. If your child hasn’t received the flu shot this season, it’s not too late.
• Hydration: Keep your child well-hydrated. Drinking water helps flush toxins from the body and keeps the immune system functioning optimally. Warm beverages like herbal teas can also be comforting.
• Healthy Diet: A nutritious diet is vital to immune health. Include foods rich in vitamins, especially vitamin C, such as oranges, strawberries, and bell peppers. Healthy snacks like yogurt and nuts also support immunity.
• Adequate Sleep: Kids need plenty of rest to fight off germs. Ensure they get the recommended amount of sleep for their age, which is usually 9–12 hours per night for school-aged children.

Reducing Germ Spread in the Home and School

Winter illnesses can spread quickly among children, especially in shared spaces. Here are some ways to limit the spread:

• Disinfect Common Areas: Regularly disinfect high-touch surfaces in your home, like door handles, light switches, and shared toys. This reduces germs that children can pick up.
• Coughing and Sneezing Etiquette: Teach children to cough or sneeze into a tissue or the inside of their elbow. This helps contain germs and keeps them from spreading to surfaces or other kids.
• Avoid Close Contact When Sick: If your child feels unwell, keep them home from school or daycare to prevent spreading illness to others. Avoid playdates or group activities until symptoms subside.

Recognizing Early Symptoms of Winter Illnesses

Knowing what to watch for can help you catch illnesses early and manage symptoms before they become severe.

• Monitor for Fevers: A fever is often the first sign of infection. Track your child’s temperature, and consult your pediatrician if it’s high or persists for more than a couple of days.
• Watch for Breathing Changes: If your child seems unusually tired, has trouble breathing, or wheezes, it may be a sign of a respiratory infection like RSV. Seek medical attention if symptoms are severe.
• Persistent Symptoms: If cold or flu symptoms linger beyond a week or worsen, it may be time to check with your pediatrician. Some cold symptoms can progress into ear infections or pneumonia if not monitored.

Care Tips for When Illness Strikes

Sometimes, despite best efforts, kids still get sick. Here are some at-home care tips to help them recover comfortably.

• Hydration and Rest: Make sure your child stays hydrated by offering water, herbal teas, or diluted fruit juice. Encourage plenty of rest, as sleep helps the body recover more quickly.
• Use a Humidifier: A cool-mist humidifier can help relieve congestion and ease breathing. Be sure to clean the humidifier regularly to prevent mold and bacteria growth.
• Medication for Fever and Discomfort: Over-the-counter fever reducers, like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help relieve fever and minor discomfort. Always follow dosing instructions carefully and consult your pediatrician before giving any new medications.
• When to Seek Medical Help: Some symptoms should never be ignored. Contact your doctor if your child has a high fever, difficulty breathing, severe pain, or if symptoms worsen despite care at home.

Staying Ahead of Winter Illnesses

Keeping kids healthy in the winter requires a bit of extra effort, but reducing the risk of illness is worth it. Encourage good habits like handwashing, a balanced diet, and plenty of sleep to support their health. Remember, early intervention is critical. If you’re concerned about any symptoms, reach out to your pediatrician. Together, we can help your child stay happy, healthy, and ready to enjoy the winter season!

If you have any questions or concerns about keeping your child healthy this winter, our team at Community Choice Pediatrics is here to help. Visit our website to schedule an appointment and get personalized advice tailored to your child’s needs. Let’s work together to ensure your child enjoys a healthy, happy winter season!

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