Health Information for the busy parent.
Host Holly Wayment, Physician Relations Specialist Sr., talks to leading pediatric experts in the field.
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The Latest Health News from Pediatrics Now in Small Bites for Parents. Welcome to Pediatrics Now for Parents, the go-to podcast for health news in small bites for busy parents with Holly Wayment, brought to you by the Department of Pediatrics and University Health's New Women's and Children's Hospital ! In this episode of Pediatrics Now, host Holly Wayment is joined by Dr. Tess Barton, an infectious disease expert at the University of Texas Health Science Center and University Health. They delve into the topic of atypical pneumonia, commonly known as walking pneumonia, and discuss the recent surge in mycoplasma pneumonia cases both locally and nationally.
Dr. Barton explains the clinical presentation of atypical pneumonia, including symptoms such as fever, cough, and wheezing, and differentiates it from other respiratory illnesses like COVID-19 and RSV. She highlights the importance of increased awareness among pediatricians and parents, and the role of diagnostic testing in identifying mycoplasma infections.
The conversation also covers the contagious nature of walking pneumonia, recommendations for managing symptoms, and the crucial role of antibiotics in reducing contagion. Dr. Barton emphasizes the significance of vaccination in preventing other respiratory illnesses, such as influenza and RSV, and addresses common concerns about vaccines, including their effectiveness and safety.
Throughout the episode, Dr. Barton provides valuable insights for parents and pediatric practitioners on recognizing warning signs of severe illness, the benefits of fever as a natural defense mechanism, and the importance of teaching children proper hygiene practices to prevent the spread of infections.
Physician Relations Specialist Sr.