Info for Parents
Helpful resources and information to support you in caring for your child's health and well-being.
RSV Protection
Advances in the care of RSV
RSV is a virus that causes significant breathing problems in young children, causing some children to be hospitalized. Since 1998 there has been a medication called Synagis available to babies with significant health problems to help them fight off RSV and protect them from serious problems from RSV. It has been cost prohibitive to provide to children other than those with other serious health problems.
Last year a new drug, Nirsevimab, was approved for use for all babies from birth to age 8 months. This new drug works the same way Synagis does, but it is cheaper and lasts longer; only one dose a season is required. This drug works by giving your child the antibodies to fight off RSV when your child should come in contact with RSV. This decreases the likelihood of serious problems.
This is recommended for all children that are ages birth - 8 months and:
- Did not receive a dose previously
- Mothers did not receive a dose of the RSV vaccine while pregnant
- Infant was born less than 14 days after mother received the RSV vaccine
We are able to provide this important protection for your child.
If you would like your child to receive this, please call to schedule, (231) 638-4120. We can begin to offer this on Oct 1, 2024.
Dosing Chart for Common Medications
Reference guide for common over-the-counter medication dosages based on your child's weight and age.
Dosing chart information will be provided soon. Always consult with your pediatrician before giving any medication to your child.
Important: Always follow the instructions on the medication package and consult with our office if you have any questions about proper dosing for your child.
Head Lice Treatment Recommendations
If your child has head lice, don't panic — they are common, treatable, and do not mean your home or child is "dirty." The key is to act promptly and thoroughly to prevent reinfestation.
1. Check and Treat EVERYONE in the Household
- If one person has lice, assume others do too. Everyone in the home — children and adults — should be checked and treated at the same time.
- Untreated carriers, even without symptoms, can cause lice to return.
2. COMBING is the Most Important Step
- No matter which product you use, removing lice and nits with a fine-toothed comb is the single most effective way to get rid of them.
- Comb every 2–3 days for at least 2 weeks after treatment.
- Work in small sections from scalp to hair ends. Wet hair and use conditioner to make combing easier.
3. Choose a Treatment Method
A. Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications
- First-line options: Permethrin 1% lotion (Nix®) or Pyrethrin-based shampoos (Rid®).
- Follow instructions exactly. Repeat in 7–10 days to kill any newly hatched lice.
- Avoid conditioner before applying the treatment, as it can make the medicine less effective.
B. Cetaphil Method (Non-Toxic Option)
- Apply Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser generously to dry hair, saturating from scalp to tips.
- Comb out excess cleanser.
- Blow-dry hair completely (this "shrink-wraps" lice and nits, suffocating them).
- Repeat once a week for 3 weeks.
- Continue nit combing between treatments.
4. Prevent Spread and Reinfestation
- Wash pillowcases, hats, bedding, and clothing worn in the last 48 hours in hot water (≥130°F) and dry on high heat.
- Soak combs and hair accessories in hot water for 10 minutes.
- Items that can't be washed can be sealed in a plastic bag for 2 weeks.
- Tell close contacts (friends, school, daycare) so they can check and treat as needed.
5. When to Call Our Office
- If lice persist after two full treatments.
- If your child is under 2 years old.
- If there is scalp infection (redness, swelling, or pus).
Remember: Lice can be stubborn, but with complete household treatment and consistent combing, you can get rid of them for good.
For additional guidance, please contact our office at (231) 638-4120.
Things to Do Around Muskegon
Family-friendly activities and attractions in the Muskegon area to keep your children active and engaged.
A comprehensive list of local activities, parks, museums, and family events will be added soon.
Muskegon offers many wonderful opportunities for families to explore and have fun together. Check back soon for our curated list of recommended activities!
Have Questions?
Our team is here to help with any questions about your child's health and well-being.