Clinical Information

Why Vaccines Matter

Vaccines protect children from diseases that were once responsible for widespread illness and death. When enough people in a community are vaccinated, it also protects those who cannot be vaccinated — such as very young infants and immunocompromised individuals.

Stopping the Leak

Think of a vaccination program like bailing out a leaking boat. If you stop bailing — even when the water level looks manageable — the boat will fill up again. Unless a disease is completely eliminated, we must keep immunizing. The moment coverage drops, diseases that seemed gone can return quickly.

Historical Examples

Japan, 1974–1979: Japan reduced pertussis (whooping cough) vaccinations due to safety concerns. Coverage dropped from 80% to 10%. Within two years, the pertussis infection rate rose from fewer than 400 cases to over 13,000 cases annually, with 41 deaths. When vaccination was resumed, rates dropped back to near zero.

Smallpox eradication: Smallpox is the only human disease that has been fully eradicated through vaccination. Because the virus was eliminated worldwide, we no longer need to vaccinate against it. This shows both the power of sustained vaccination and what becomes possible once a disease is truly gone — but it required generations of global commitment to achieve.

For the current recommended immunization schedule, visit CDC.gov.

How an Asthma Attack Works

During an asthma attack, the airways become inflamed and swollen, the muscles surrounding them tighten, and excess mucus is produced. Together these reactions narrow the airway and make it hard to breathe — especially to exhale.

Symptoms

• Wheezing (a whistling or squeaky sound when breathing)
• Rapid breathing
• Labored breathing — visible effort, belly moving up and down
• Shortness of breath or feeling unable to catch a breath
• Persistent or recurring cough, especially at night or after exercise
• Chest tightness or pressure
• Skin pulling in around the neck or between ribs when breathing
• Fatigue or trouble sleeping due to breathing difficulty
• Bluish tint to lips or fingernails (severe — call 911)

Severity Levels

• Mild Intermittent: Symptoms 2 or fewer days per week, minimal impact on activity
• Mild Persistent: Symptoms more than 2 days per week but not daily
• Moderate Persistent: Daily symptoms, some limitation of activity
• Severe Persistent: Continuous symptoms, severely limited activity

Common Triggers

• Exercise or physical activity
• Respiratory infections (colds, flu)
• Allergens: dust mites, pet dander, mold, pollen
• Air pollution, smoke, strong odors
• Cold air or weather changes
• Strong emotions or stress

Treatment

• Controller medications: Taken daily to reduce airway inflammation and prevent symptoms (e.g., inhaled corticosteroids)
• Rescue medications: Quick-relief inhalers used when symptoms flare (e.g., albuterol)
• Asthma Action Plan: A written plan your doctor provides that tells you exactly what to do based on your child's symptoms

Understanding BMI

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a useful screening tool that measures body weight relative to height. For children and teens, BMI is compared against age- and sex-specific growth charts because body composition changes with age.

• Underweight: Below the 5th percentile
• Healthy weight: 5th–84th percentile
• Overweight: 85th–94th percentile
• Obese: 95th percentile or higher

Risks of Excess Weight

Children who are overweight face increased risks of high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, joint problems, sleep apnea, and mental health challenges. Early intervention makes a significant difference.

Practical Strategies for a Healthy Weight

• Learn about nutrition: Understand what's in the foods your family eats — labels, ingredients, and portion sizes all matter.
• Monitor portions: Serve appropriate portions rather than letting children self-serve from large containers or packages.
• Choose nutrient-dense foods: Prioritize fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit sugar-sweetened beverages and processed snacks.
• Increase physical activity: Aim for at least 60 minutes of moderate activity daily. Limit screen time, especially sedentary screen use.
• Track intake and weight weekly: A simple food and activity diary helps identify patterns and keeps the whole family accountable.
• Use trusted resources: The USDA's MyPlate.gov offers practical, evidence-based nutrition guidance for families.

What We Can Do Together

Our doctors provide personalized guidance on nutrition, physical activity, and healthy habits. We work with families — not against them — to build sustainable, supportive strategies for each child.