www. Char l es tonPhys i c i ans . com | www.Hea l thL i nksChar l es ton . com | 61 She also mentioned that scientists are trying to come up with an RSV vaccine. “We aren’t there yet, but they are working on it,” she commented. A frequently asked question for Dr. Key when it comes to viruses are how parents can tell if the illness their child is experiencing is a virus or allergies. “Charleston has a lot of allergens at different times of the year. For example, there are mold spores blown in the air when the air conditioners or heaters turn on, pets and even dust mites in stuffed toys,” she said, pointing out that the best indicator that a child is suffering with allergies and not a virus is a fever. “If your child has a fever, it isn’t an allergic reaction. It’s an infection.” She added that in addition, allergies are not contagious. “If you were around someone with a bad cold and then you develop a stuffy nose, you can pretty much bet money that you have that cold and it isn’t allergies,” she explained. She also noted that with allergies, the drainage usually is clear and often there are dark circles under the eyes. Another sign is when the child rubs the tip of his or her nose: “We call that the allergic salute.” So what should we do to keep our kids safe during this winter? There are a couple of preventive steps that seem simple but really work. First, “get vaccinated,” said Dr. Key. Second, she recommends washing your hands and using hand sanitizer often. Third, if you are sick, stay home from work or school until your symptoms subside. Finally, she said, “We discovered during COVID that masks really work. If you are susceptible or around others who are sick, wear a mask. These viruses love to jump from person to person.” Dr. Key reiterated, “One last thing regarding protecting children – we should surround those who are most fragile with a virus-free defense. For example, when there is a baby or sick child in the home, everyone should get vaccinated and be particularly cautious when in public.” When it comes to viruses, it’s true that the more things change, the more they stay the same. The viruses might change, but they’ll always be around. In the end, Dr. Key advises parents to talk to their doctor about vaccines and how to stay healthy in the winter months. C H A R L E S T ON COU N T Y M E D I C A L S OC I E T Y HealthLinks Charleston is a proud partner of the Charleston County Medical Society. For more information on joining CCMS, contact Dana Holladay at [email protected]. For more information on Dr. Key and her work as a pediatrician, visit providers.muschealth.org/sc/charleston/janice-dixon-key-md.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjcyNTM1