Pediatric Guide
Your trusted resource for essential medical information and parental guidance.
Immunizations
Recommended Vaccination Schedule
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides detailed immunization schedules for children from birth to 18 years of age. If your child has missed vaccinations or started late, the CDC offers catch-up schedules for proper protection.
Key vaccination milestones occur at ages 4-6 and 11-12, aligning with school entry and adolescence. After receiving vaccinations, children may need extra attention and comfort. Some common reactions include temporary discomfort, fussiness, pain, and fever.
Click on the link below to view the full schedule and additional information.
School Physical Requirements
Illinois state law requires comprehensive physical exams for children entering:
- Kindergarten
- 6th grade
- 9th grade (first year of high school)
These examinations remain valid for one year from the date of completion. Schools typically distribute examination forms in the spring for the upcoming academic year. We strongly recommend scheduling these physicals in the spring and no later than June. That way you won’t have to worry about not having it done in time before the school year starts.
If you need a copy of the Illinois School Physical Form, you can download it here.
Age-Specific Resources
Visit healthychildren.org for detailed guidance regarding:
Vaccines
Click on the CDC link below to learn specific immunization information and details on U.S. vaccine requirements.
Chickenpox
The CDC provides comprehensive information about symptoms, vaccinations, and management of chickenpox infections.
Fever Management
Fever occurs when an imbalance exists between heat production and heat loss, most commonly due to infection. Treatment guidelines are as follows:
Use Tylenol and/or ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil)
Increase fluid intake
For fevers above 103.5°F, provide a tepid bath
Never use cold baths, as they cause shivering and increase heat production
Influenza
The flu is a contagious respiratory illness that ranges from mild to severe. High-risk groups including older adults, young children, and those with certain health conditions. These individuals should receive annual vaccinations.
Whooping Cough (Pertussis)
This highly contagious bacterial infection caused by Bordetella pertussis remains one of the most common vaccine-preventable diseases in the United States.
Strep Throat
Caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria, strep throat spreads through respiratory droplets. The bacteria can survive in the nose and throat and transmits through close contact.
Head Lice (Pediculosis)
Lice infestations spread through direct person-to-person contact. Important notes:
- Pets do not transmit human lice
- Treatment requires specific anti-lice medications
- Prevention involves avoiding shared personal items
Warts and Plantar Warts
These skin growths are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV):
- Most common in children and young adults
- Spread through direct contact
- Often resolved without treatment
- Can self-spread through touching
Food Allergies
Affecting 4-6% of U.S. children under 18, food allergies occur when the immune system incorrectly identifies certain foods as harmful. Proper diagnosis and management are essential for affected children.
Asthma
This common respiratory condition affects over 34 million Americans. Symptoms include:
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Chest tightness
Management strategies exist to control symptoms effectively.
ADD & ADHD
Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder manifests through:
- Difficulty maintaining attention
- Impulsive behavior
- Hyperactivity
While ADHD cannot be cured, symptoms often improve with age and can be managed through various treatment approaches.
