April 10, 2026, 10:00 a.m.
Are you prepared for the change in seasons? Jamie Kondis, MD, offers tips to keep your child healthy as the weather warms up.
- In recent years, seasonal illnesses have varied but expect to see some of the same winter respiratory virus infections such as influenza, COVID-19, and RSV.
- To combat these illnesses, it is important that your child’s vaccinations are kept up to date.
- Environmental factors such as pollen and changing weather can trigger asthma attacks. Make sure to stock up on asthma medications, allergy medications, and rescue inhalers.
- During the spring, there is also a rise in gastrointestinal viruses, such as vomiting or diarrhea. These are typically spread through hand-to-mouth contact. Make sure to have your child wash their hands with soap and water after playing with friends and before they eat.
- Finally, have enough of your child’s regular medications well-stocked.
If your child is experiencing a seasonal illness, our Washington University Children’s After Hours locations provide convenient medical care for your child’s illnesses and injuries as a faster alternative to the Emergency Department when your pediatrician’s office is closed. In most cases, children can be seen here or in a BJC Medical Group Convenient Care, rather than in the Emergency Department.
