Protect Babies and Children

From the "Journal of Pediatrics" (click here)

Respiratory diseases account for about 25% of all pediatric consultations, and 10% of these are for asthma. The other main pediatric respiratory diseases, in terms of incidence, are bronchiolitis, acute bronchitis and respiratory infections. Oral corticosteroids, in particular prednisolone, are often used to treat acute respiratory diseases given their anti-inflammatory effects. However, the efficacy of treatment with oral corticosteroids differs among the various types of pediatric respiratory diseases. Notably, also the adverse effects of corticosteroid treatment can differ depending on dosage, duration of treatment and type of corticosteroid administered — a case in point being growth retardation in long-course treatment. A large body of data has accumulated on this topic. In this article, we have reviewed the data and guidelines related to the role of oral corticosteroids in the treatment and management of pediatric bronchiolitis, wheezing, asthma and croup in the attempt to provide guidance for physicians. Also included is a section on the management of acute respiratory failure in children....

There is a virus infecting the upper respiratory tract that can cause severe distress.

The virus will test negative for strep and COVID of any variety.

The virus causes inflammation of the tissues. Pediatricians will order antibiotics and will repeat twice, but, no relief. Prednisone is the only course of treatment that works and will provide immediate results.

The problems of the virus producing copious amounts of secretions is that well meaning parents will use Vicks Vapor products. STOP! Vicks is a cough suppressant and will prevent expectoration of the secretions. Vicks has a warning on it’s product in small print. This aspect of the product is frequently ignored.

DO NOT USE MUCINEX with this virus!

Mucinex will stop secretions but the inflammation will not abate. The result is blockage of the upper respiratory passages and mouth breathing as the only available air. Children and babies have small airways.

There is no reason to shy away from a short course of prednisone of four to five days. A safe dose based on weight and age. This will immediately end the threat and provide relief to child and parents. I mean every word here.

Steam from vaporizers and/or showers will work to provide relief until proper steroid treatment is obtained.

The steroid treatment is also necessary in older children and adults.

It is a really lousy virus!

Use good hygiene!

DO NOT REINFECT!