As we move deeper into winter here in Silver Spring, we are seeing a sharp rise in flu cases across Maryland. While the flu is common, it can be tougher on young children because their immune systems are still developing. We want to help you spot it early and manage it confidently at home.

Signs to Watch For

The flu often hits suddenly. Unlike a cold that builds up slowly, your child might go from fine to sick within hours.

• Sudden high fever (often over 101°F)
• Chills and body aches
• Extreme fatigue
• Dry cough and sore throat
• Vomiting or diarrhea (more common in kids than adults)

Action Tips for Parents

If you suspect the flu, prioritize comfort and hydration.

• Rest is Key: Keep them home from school or daycare.
• Fluids: Offer water, diluted juice, or electrolyte solutions frequently to prevent dehydration.
• Fever Management: Use acetaminophen or ibuprofen (for children over 6 months) as directed to lower fevers and ease aches. Never give aspirin to children.

When to Call Us

Most children recover well at home within a week, but complications can happen. Please call our office immediately if your child:

• Has difficulty breathing or fast breathing.
• Shows signs of dehydration (no urine for 8 hours, dry mouth, no tears).
• Is not alert or interacting when awake.
• Has a fever that returns after going away.
• Is under 3 months old and has a fever.

We are here to support you through flu season. If you are ever unsure about your child’s symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out. Stay warm and stay healthy.

When your child is sick or hurt, you want care from someone you trust. We want to remind our patient families that we offer same-day appointments during our regular office hours for urgent medical needs.

Before heading to a crowded urgent care center, please call our office first. Urgent care centers can have long wait times and are staffed by providers who don't know your child's medical history. By coming to our practice, your child will be seen by a familiar team that understands their unique health needs, all in a comfortable and known environment. This continuity of care is essential for making the best decisions for your child’s health.

For urgent needs, from sudden fevers to minor injuries, our team is ready to provide the personalized, timely care your child deserves. Just give us a call, and we will schedule an appointment for you as soon as possible.

At Sunshine Pediatrics, we believe that feeding your baby is one of the most important bonding experiences you will share.

Breastfeeding offers incredible benefits, providing essential nutrients that boost your baby’s immune system and support healthy development. However, we also know that the journey isn't always easy, and every family's path looks different.

To support you in reaching your feeding goals, we are proud to offer specialized lactation services right here in our Silver Spring office. Whether you are navigating latch issues, supply concerns, or simply need reassurance, we are here to help.

Our team includes experienced International Board-Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLC), Dawn Kretz and Felicia James. We offer flexible options to fit your schedule, including:

• In-office consultations for hands-on support.
• Virtual consultations for guidance from the comfort of home.

We are committed to empowering you with the education and support you need to feed your baby with confidence. Please call our office if you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation.