NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin’s Post

Benefits of Breastfeeding Shields against childhood illnesses such as diarrhea, respiratory infections, and ear infections Offers anti-allergic benefits Immunoglobulins deliver anti-infective protection Aids in reinforcing the intestinal lining to prevent the absorption of antigens

Chickenpox Pointers ℹ ☞It is a viral infection, known medically as varicella and it is caused by a virus called varicella-zoster ☞Chickenpox is very infectious and spreads easily (so avoid ‘at risk’ people whist infectious) ☞Typically infections are mild ☞Mainly affects children (but it can be caught at any age) ☞Usually gets better by itself after 1 to 2 weeks ☞An itchy, spotty rash anywhere on the body is the main symptom but other symptoms include a high temperature and feeling generally unwell (loss of appetite) ☞Chickenpox is very itchy and it’s best to visit your local chemist for the best gels and creams to help ☞Dress in loose clothes and bathe in cool water then pat the skin dry (do not rub!) Hack: gently cut your child's fingernails and put socks on their hands at night to stop them scratching & ice lollies are a great source of fluids! More info & sources:  NHS: https://lnkd.in/dD74a2rq Kid’s Health: https://lnkd.in/eGzbwbxH NHS Inform: https://lnkd.in/e5JHqyrC #happynestuk #nanny #maternitynurse #parenting #childcare #chickenpox  

RSV is often in the news, and the focus is on babies. But did you know that other age groups (and those with asthma) can also be impacted? 🫁 New article for Health Union https://lnkd.in/gfjC6mtr #asthma #asthmaeducator #RSV #healtheducator #healtheducationspecialist #publichealth #publichealthmatters

Protect Your Baby from RSV    Respiratory Syncytial Virus is seen in babies as bronchiolitis with symptoms such as a runny nose and a cough that progresses to difficulty breathing and wheezing. RSV is a seasonal viral disease transmitted via droplets and babies, especially, are at risk.    HOW  RSV can spread when an infected person coughs or sneezes near your baby, when they hold and kiss them, or when your baby touches a contaminated surface. Handwashing, cleaning surfaces and limiting interactions your baby has is key to decreasing the risk of infection.    RISK FACTORS  RSV is common and mild for older children. For babies under 8 months, preterm, babies, and babies with other health issues are all at risk for RSV is a severe illness. RSV is present during the winter and early spring months. Exposure to crowded situations during these seasons are also a risk factor.    SYMPTOMS  Early symptoms: runny nose, coughing, decreased activity. If your baby is also irritable, eating or drinking less, wheezing or having pauses in breathing that last for more than 10 seconds, take them to a healthcare provider. Fever may not always be present    PREVETION  There is a maternal vaccine from 32-36 weeks of gestation. This vaccine will protect your baby for 6 months. Breastfeeding also helps your baby receive maternal antibodies. There is a injection for babies who did not receive the vaccine during gestation and this vaccine (Nirsevimab) protects the baby immediately and last for at least 5 months. Continue handwashing, cleaning surfaces, limiting crowd exposure, and recognizing symptoms.    TREATMENT  If possible, ease early symptoms via breastfeeding more often to reduce dehydration, use a bulb syringe to remove excess mucus, and provide quiet rest for them as well. If symptoms worsen contact a healthcare provide. If that is not a possibility, have your baby evaluated at the emergency department. There they can help your baby. 

Whooping cough (pertussis) is a highly contagious respiratory infection that poses serious risks, especially to babies, young children, and pregnant women. This newsletter explores the symptoms, treatment options, and the critical importance of vaccination in preventing the spread of this disease. Stay informed and learn how to protect your loved ones from this potentially life-threatening illness. #WhoopingCough #Pertussis #Vaccination #ChildHealth #PublicHealth #Healthcare #InfectionPrevention #MaternalHealth #PediatricCare #HealthAwareness

🚨 It's Pediatric Sepsis Week! Let’s stand together to protect our children from sepsis, a life-threatening response to infection that can cause rapid harm if not treated promptly. 💔👶 👉 Signs to Watch Out For: - Fever or very low body temperature - Rapid breathing or difficulty breathing - Lethargy, confusion, or excessive sleepiness - Pale, mottled, or bluish skin - Severe muscle pain or abdominal pain - Unusual rash or skin discolouration - Decreased urine output 📈 Facts to Know: - Sepsis is a leading cause of death in children worldwide. - Prompt recognition and treatment significantly improve survival rates. 🛡️ How to Keep Children Safe: - Keep up with vaccinations to protect against infections. - Practice good hygiene, like regular handwashing. - Treat cuts and injuries promptly and keep them clean. - Be vigilant and responsive to any signs of infection. - If your child has a chronic condition, manage it closely and be aware of specific risks and signs of infection. 🏥 Remember: - Early detection can be lifesaving. Knowing the signs and reacting quickly to potential infections are key steps in preventing sepsis. Share this post to raise awareness and help protect our little ones from the dangers of sepsis! #StopSepsis #PediatricSepsisWeek #SepsisAwareness #ChildHealth #KnowTheSignsSaveLives #JustAskCouldItBeSepsis

Test Your Knowledge of Managing Pediatric Community-Acquired Pneumonia in Urgent Care! A vaccinated, well-appearing 2-year-old girl with upper respiratory infection symptoms for 1 day and fever to 38.3°C (101°F) presents to your urgent care. She is well-hydrated and has normal work of breathing on examination. You auscultate some transmitted upper airway sounds and scattered rales. You should: A. Refer the child to the emergency department. B. Give expectant guidance and return precautions before discharging the girl home with appropriate follow-up. C. Order a chest x-ray, laboratory studies, and a blood culture. D. Prescribe amoxicillin. Did you get it right? Find out here: https://loom.ly/YKzRhAY

Children are often prone to respiratory tract infections (RTIs), given their still-developing immune systems and frequent exposure to pathogens in environments like schools or daycare. RTIs are categorized based on the area they affect: upper respiratory tract (nose, sinuses, and throat) and lower respiratory tract (windpipe and lungs).   Upper Respiratory Tract Infections (URTIs) include the common cold, sinusitis, and tonsillitis. Symptoms may involve a runny nose, sore throat, cough, and fever. These infections are usually mild but can be uncomfortable for the child.   Lower Respiratory Tract Infections (LRTIs), like bronchiolitis and pneumonia, are more severe. They can manifest with a persistent cough, wheezing, chest pain, difficulty breathing, and high fever. If untreated, they can lead to complications and demand hospitalization.   Dr. Kalpana Bharani Kumar recommends regular hand washing, a balanced diet, and timely vaccinations to reduce the risk of RTIs. For children showing persistent symptoms, especially breathing difficulties, it's crucial to seek medical attention promptly.    In conclusion, while RTIs are common in childhood, they shouldn't be overlooked. Parents should remain vigilant and prioritize their child's respiratory health, taking preventive measures and seeking expert medical advice when needed.   #RespiratoryTractInfections #RTI #UpperRTI #LowerRTI #ChildHealth #DrKalpanaBharaniKumar #PediatricRespiratory #BreathingEasy #HealthyLungs #RespiratoryCare #ChildWellness #PreventiveMeasures #PediatricExpertise #NeonatalCare

🧭 Navigating 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐩𝐢𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 can be a lifelong challenge for preterm infants 🧭 Infants born very preterm or with risk factors are prone to 𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐩𝐢𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐛𝐢𝐝𝐢𝐭𝐲, notably obstructive airway diseases. Those with severe pulmonary issues in infancy, such as bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), face heightened 𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐤𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐠-𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐦 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐩𝐢𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐜𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐢𝐨𝐯𝐚𝐬𝐜𝐮𝐥𝐚𝐫 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐛𝐥𝐞𝐦𝐬. Symptoms can persist from infancy through young adulthood. ▶️ This is why follow-up care programmes are key! 🏥 While routine lung function tests are not standard, close 𝐜𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐯𝐞𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 is essential for high-risk infants, especially BPD survivors, to guide intervention. 😷 Health promotion measures, including 𝐚𝐯𝐨𝐢𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐜𝐨 𝐬𝐦𝐨𝐤𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐩𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧, and ensuring appropriate 𝐯𝐚𝐜𝐜𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬, are crucial as well. 🏃 Additionally, 𝐩𝐡𝐲𝐬𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐭𝐲 may improve exercise tolerance and flexibility in preterm children, highlighting the importance of follow-up care programmes. ➡️ Read more on our standard for improved respiratory outcomes here: https://bit.ly/3xA8aIX #ESCNH #11Months11Topics #BetterStandardsBetterOutcomes #PretermBirth

Do parents know? Babies are 16x more likely to be hospitalized with RSV than with the flu. It's the leading cause for hospitalization in babies under age 1. A positive RSV test should be taken seriously. Let's work together to raise awareness of RSV and how much it impacts babies. Learn how you can help protect your baby here www.protectagainstrsv.com #RSVawareness #RSVprotection