There are currently over 20 recent cases of mumps and 4 cases of measles reported in the Toronto area.

Both of these diseases are contagious viruses that are preventable by vaccination. Typically, children get vaccinated against these illnesses between 12 and 15 months of age and again between 4 and 6 years of age.  Children less than 12 months old are not eligible to receive this vaccine and, as such, they are particularly vulnerable to these illnesses.

The best protection is vaccination so please make sure your child’s immunizations are up-to-date.

MUMPS

For more info, visit Mumps Info

MEASLES

For more info, visit Measles Info

Measles is highly contagious. 90% of unimmunized people exposed to the measles virus will become infected. If you believe that your child has the measles or has been exposed to the measles, please contact the office prior to coming in so that we can prevent any potential spread of the disease.

We have a lot of questions about sunscreens in children . Under age 1 a child should not be in direct sunlight at all. It is OK to use mineral based sunscreens under age 1 , but avoidance is key.

Block vs screen-  some sunscreens are made with ingredients that “block” the sun . This would be similar to wearing clothing to block the sun. These are mineral based sunscreens that contain zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.  This is basically similar to diaper cream. They are the safest sunscreens to use particularly in younger children and infants.

SPF- this number relates to how long it takes to burn if you wear the sunscreen. Once you are at SPF30 you are filtering over 95% of the suns rays. Higher numbers give you diminishing returns. So look for SPF 30 or 40 and apply the sunscreen often.

A good resource is the website http://www.ewg.org

There is info on this website about safety of particular sunscreens so it can help you choose one for your child.

You may have heard about the recall involving Hep A. Here is a link with more details http://healthycanadians.gc.ca/recall-alert-rappel-avis/inspection/2016/57960r-eng.php

Hep A is transmitted from person to person , through water or foods washed with contaminated water or handled by people who have Hep A. This sort of outbreak is not common but can happen with foods imported from other countries. We usually discuss Hep A related to travel. 

Hep B is contracted through body fluids. Vaccination occurs in grade 7 in Ontario but anywhere else occurs at birth. 

Paediatricians recommend the TWINRIX vaccine which protects against hep a and b. It can be done any time after age 1. 

We promote Bexsero and Menactra/Menveo vaccines which are for meningitis and Twinrix. Outbreaks of meningitis and hepatitis can happen. We are familiar with this. Often parents don’t think about this until an outbreak occurs. The idea behind vaccination is to PREVENT illness. That’s why we inform parents about these optional vaccines in the office. 

We are closed for family day Feb 15. Enjoy the day with your children! The walkin across the hall is one today and Dr Cannitelli is available for messages.

If your child is ill consider one of these options:

1- if you are a block fee patient you are welcome to email Dr Cannitelli for some advice

2- Our own Innovation  walkin clinic will be happy to see your children and pass on any necessary information to us when we return.

3- The rutherford medical centre at 5283 rutherford rd ( at clarence -longo’s plaza)– 9052648311 will be open evenings and weekends– see  afterhourschildrensclinic.com

4. 2- The York Children’s walkin clinic at 10323 yonge st ( yonge north of major mac ) — 9052374632——-see www.yorkchildrenswalkin.ca

Stay healthy till we get back!

Here is an interesting discussion about ASD and why it seems so prevalent

TED talk on ASD

Hand foot and mouth disease ( HFM) is still around. We saw lots over the summer and it has not slowed down. It is caused by a virus called Coxsackie. Kids get spots on the palms and soles classically, but they can actually be anywhere. These don’t bother them much. They get mouth ulcers on the tongue and mouth and throat These  hurt a lot. They get fever for up to a  week.. It is contagious and we isolate them for a week. We use Tylenol etc for pain and fever and give Popsicles etc for throat pain.