Jazmin Gonzalez, MD, Pediatrics at ARC Goodnight Ranch, recently contributed to an Austin American-Statesman article highlighting the rise in flu, hand, foot, and mouth disease, and whooping cough (pertussis) among school-age children. The article shares data points on respiratory viruses circulating in the Austin area, and information on treatment and prevention.
Dr. Gonzalez shared that most cases of the flu have been flu B. Patients are experiencing high fever, body aches, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. With flu activity historically higher during the holidays, she expects these cases to rise and recommends flu shots as the best source of protection.
ARC doctors and advanced practice clinicians (APCs) are also seeing an increase in cases of hand, foot, and mouth in the community. Dr. Gonzalez reports that rashes are spreading to arms and legs, not just the feet and hands – with symptoms including fever and mouth sores. Recommendations state that children should stay hydrated and stay out of school until no new blisters have appeared, and older blisters begin to scab over.
Prevent illness with a vaccine
ARC Pediatrics offers vaccinations for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), flu, and pertussis:
- RSV vaccine: Beyfortus RSV vaccine is available for infants younger than eight months born during or entering their first RSV season (October – March) or babies 18-19 months who are at increased risk and in their second RSV season.
- Flu shot: Available for children ages six months and up.
- Tdap vaccine: Tdap vaccine protects children and adults for diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis. For children 11 years and up, one booster with Tdap is recommended. For children under seven years, the DTaP series is recommended.
Make an appointment today
To schedule a vaccine appointment at any ARC clinic or After Hours Clinic, call 512-272-4636 and press "1". Patients can also book their annual flu shot in ARC MyChart or at ARCflushot.com and request to add a shot to any flu appointment.
Dr. Gonzalez sees pediatric patients 18 and younger. For an appointment, call ARC Goodnight Ranch at 512-231-5150 or schedule an appointment online.