Most of the parents I know have plenty to do and more than enough to think — and worry — about. Sometimes, between taking care of your kids and making sure your parents are ok, it can feel like there is a lot on your mind. As your child’s healthcare provider, we’re here to ease your parenting worries so you can enjoy more precious moments with your kiddos!
Getting your child in for a checkup and immunizations is an opportunity to talk with us about your child’s growth and development and to get support when it comes to encouraging healthy habits — and avoiding unhealthy habits from having too many sugary beverages to vaping. We can also ease concerns about your child coming down with — or spreading — some preventable illnesses that could have serious consequences.
Today, as parents, we are fortunate that advancements in medicine and the development of vaccines allows us to prevent many illnesses that were once devastating. Things like hepatitis A and B, rotavirus, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio, measles, mumps, rubella and chicken pox. Until recently, it was rare for our generation to hear about these diseases seriously affecting children– because most people are vaccinated. But every now and then we hear about an outbreak of a disease that could have been prevented such as Hepatitis A, measles, whooping cough and chicken pox along with others. If fewer and fewer children get vaccinated, these illnesses have an opportunity to make a comeback with more outbreaks.
I believe that, like me, you want to do what’s best for your children. So, I get that you may have questions – and that’s okay! We want to work with you how ever you’re comfortable. Routine checkups are important, even when vaccinations are not given. My fellow caregivers in Pediatrics and I are here to answer your questions and give you the information you need to protect your child’s health and your peace of mind. As a pediatrician and as a parent, I wouldn’t ask you to do something with your child that I wouldn’t do for my own.
If your child’s checkup has been on the back burner, we get it! Life gets hectic, right? I encourage you to take a moment and schedule your child’s appointment — we can even get your children in together to save you time. Call Winona Health 507.454.3650. If you need a healthcare provider — one who actually listens and gets to know your family — check out the options on our website: winonahealth.org/primarycare. We are all caregivers — that includes you! And we are here to support you.
Sarah Lallaman, DO, FAAP Pediatrics
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