Symptoms typically emerge 7-14 days following exposure to the virus, beginning with a high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. 2-3 days after these initial symptoms, tiny white spots known as Koplik spots might surface inside the mouth. Subsequently, 3-5 days after the onset of symptoms, a distinctive rash appears.
The measles rash is quite distinctive, typically starting with flat red spots at the hairline on the face and then spreading downwards to the neck, trunk, arms, legs, and feet. In addition to these flat red spots, small raised bumps can emerge on them. As the rash spreads from the head down the body, the spots might merge. Concurrently, when the rash develops, the individual's fever can soar to over 104° Fahrenheit.
If you think your child may have measles, immediately reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance. Keeping your child isolated is key to preventing the spread of the disease. Always call ahead before visiting a clinic or hospital to alert them of your situation. This precaution is essential, as it enables healthcare facilities to take necessary steps to avoid further spread of the virus. For our Head2Toe families, we are offering home visits for cases of rashes that may be indicative of measles, regardless of whether you're enrolled in plans that typically include home visits or those that usually require in-office appointments. This approach helps us minimize the risk of spreading the virus by eliminating the need for your child to leave the house.
In terms of treatment, our main focus is on alleviating symptoms, as measles is caused by a virus and there's no specific antiviral medication for it. The most effective defense we have is the MMR vaccine, which safeguards against measles, mumps, and rubella. The vaccine is usually administered in two doses: the first between 12-15 months of age and the second between 4-6 years. However, infants as young as 6 months can receive the MMR vaccine under certain circumstances. A single dose of the MMR vaccine is 93% effective in preventing measles, and two doses are 97% effective. Even though it's ideal to have the MMR vaccination prior to exposure, receiving the vaccine post-exposure can still be beneficial and may prevent the disease or result in a less severe illness. Receiving the MMR vaccine within 72 hours after exposure to measles can offer some level of protection or lead to a milder form of the disease. Alternatively, immunoglobulin (IG) may be administered within six days of exposure to measles to help protect against the disease or lessen the severity of the illness.
Remain vigilant for symptoms and contact your healthcare provider promptly if you suspect an infection, as timely intervention is critical. Exercise caution regarding your surroundings and potential exposures, especially if your child is not fully vaccinated against measles. Individuals without vaccination protection are at a high risk of contracting measles upon exposure. This risk group includes unvaccinated children, infants too young for vaccination, individuals who cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons, and those who fail to develop a lasting or robust immune response to the vaccine. If you're not sure about your child's vaccine status, now's the time to chat with your doctor. Getting the MMR vaccine even after being exposed to measles might still offer some protection or at least make the illness milder.
Supportive care for measles primarily focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing complications.
Complications can arise, ranging from ear infections and diarrhea to more severe conditions such as pneumonia, encephalitis (swelling of the brain), and, though rare, even death. These serious complications are exactly what we aim to avoid, and vaccinations have been shown to significantly reduce their occurrence. Be informed about the following statistics:
October marks Fall Wellness Month at Head2Toe, where we focus on personalized healthcare with biannual checks tailored for seasonal readiness and overall health, including nutrition, sleep, and bowel habits. Our latest blog post offers a glimpse into our distinctive approach, sharing practical tips to seamlessly incorporate health into daily family life, aiming for consistency and long-term well-being.
Watching your kids battle coughs and runny noses is never easy, and the mood swings and sleepless nights that follow are incredibly draining. As a pediatrician and a parent right in the thick of it, I’ve picked up a few helpful tips to make this season of parenting easier for both our kids and us.
Ensuring our children have nutritious meals is crucial for their ability to concentrate, learn, and stay active, and as a parent, I know firsthand how daunting this task can be. Balancing convenience with nutrition while keeping meals exciting and appealing is a constant challenge. That's why I'm here to share some tips!
With our move to a new home and the non-stop energy of a 9-month-old and a 2.5-year-old, I've been focused on baby-proofing more than ever. It’s easy to overlook until a scare prompts us to reassess our home’s safety, but I’m a big advocate for being proactive rather than reactive. In this post, I'll walk you through each room, providing useful tips and pointing out areas that might easily be missed.
I’ve rounded up the top 5 reasons pediatricians get those frantic summer calls. As a parent, getting a heads-up on these will arm you with the know-how to spot trouble early, along with my pro tips for preventative measures that’ll keep those summer bummers at bay. But wait, there’s more! I’ve also packed this toolkit with my absolute must-haves for your summer bag. These essentials are game-changers, ensuring your kids stay healthy and happy, while you maintain your cool through the summer saga.
Instead of waiting for "the right time" to focus on myself—a time that rarely came because I was too exhausted and just wanted to grab whatever sleep I could—I began to weave little moments for myself into our everyday life. Yes, motherhood is incredibly demanding, and naturally, our children often take priority, but we shouldn't overlook our own needs.
Navigating the challenges of spring allergies in children can be daunting, especially when trying to distinguish between symptoms of allergies and signs of illness. Understanding these differences is crucial for providing the appropriate care, whether it involves allergy management or treating an infection.
With Christmas having come and gone, and a bounty of gifts now part of our homes, it's an opportune time to sort through them, particularly from a safety perspective. As both a pediatrician and a parent, I recognize the challenge in navigating gift choices, especially when they're given with love. However, prioritizing the safety and well-being of our children is crucial.
I'm eager to pass on a beloved tradition from our home to yours. It may seem a little predictable, but it's a cornerstone of our holiday joy. When the holidays roll around, it's elf time at our house, and it's a total giggle fest! Every morning, we're on the lookout for what funny stuff our elf has done next. So if you want to join in on the elf game and need ideas, I've got five to share. They're fun, easy, and the kids will love them. Let's make some merry elf magic!
Cheers to the beginning of the holiday season! Families are getting ready for a flurry of festive events, joyful get-togethers, and cherished moments. However, this period can also bring changes in routines, weather, and heightened social interactions that may affect children's well-being. As a pediatrician, we're here to offer advice on managing these challenges to ensure your family enjoys a healthy and joyful holiday season. We cover topics such as adjusting to daylight saving time, smoothly transitioning through the holiday season, and maintaining your child's health during this time.
Navigating the complexities of breastfeeding while pregnant, this post delves into the personal journey of Dr. Lastra as a soon to be mother of two. A heartfelt account for National Breastfeeding Month, it's a testament to the unique paths every mother treads, regardless of how they choose to feed their child.
Allow me to shed some light on why, as a pediatrician, I decided to take the expressway to the ER with my daughters injury, bypassing the exits for an urgent care center or a regular pediatric check-up. I’m also going to tell you what we did to prepare for our outing to the ER and how I handled this as a mommy!
Traveling with children can be an exhilarating adventure. As both a pediatrician and a mother, I've compiled a list of essential tips to help make your travel experience smoother, safer, and more enjoyable for everyone involved.
Head2Toe Pediatrics provides personalized care with 24/7 physician access, unlimited appointments, and individualized pediatric care. Families pay a monthly flat fee on top of their insurance coverage for these specialized services. Our proactive care and timely interventions save families money and reduce healthcare stress, with the added convenience of at-home care.
Pediatric house calls for kids in Tampa Bay by Board-Certified Pediatricians at Head2Toe Pediatrics! We're all about personalized, top-notch care that's tailored to meet your family’s needs. So say goodbye to busy waiting rooms and hello to the doctor knocking on your door!
Introducing your new pediatrician, Head2Toe Pediatrics! With our amazing personalized care, flexible scheduling, and 24/7 access to the doctor, you won't be able to resist our services. Once you try us, you won't want pediatric care any other way!
As a parent, it can be challenging to find snacks that your toddler will love and that are also packed with nutrients. That's why I've rounded up three easy and nutritious snack ideas that your little ones are sure to enjoy!
At Head2Toe Pediatrics, we understand that the safety and comfort of your child is your top priority, and it's ours too. That's why we offer families in the Tampa Bay area medical-grade ear piercing services from a trusted provider with extensive experience, ensuring the highest level of safety and care for our patients.
It’s hard to navigate the never-ending products for baby. Dr. Lastra narrows it down for you.