Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that is most often caused by viruses or bacteria. This infection leads to inflammation in the lungs, causing the tiny air sacs (or, alveoli) that are usually filled up with air to fill up with pus and other liquid instead. This can cause many different symptoms, including fever, cough, chest pain, and increased work of breathing (difficulty/labored breathing).

It is important for parents of young children and those with certain high-risk conditions to understand how to recognize the signs and symptoms of pneumonia as well as key prevention strategies available and recommended to help keep their kids healthy and safe.

If you are a parent to an infant or young child, you may have seen or heard of scary headlines or videos on social media about the dangers of RSV in babies and small children. But what is it, how common is it, and do you really need to worry?

It is important for parents of little ones and those with certain underlying conditions to understand the risks of RSV and the steps they can take to prevent it—as well as what to look out for and how to care for their child should they become infected.

Flu season is fast-approaching, and there is much to know about the flu! You may have some questions about how you can help keep your child healthy or what you should do if your child becomes ill. Staying up to date on the latest information is key to successfully (or, at least preparedly) navigating the sick season ahead with little ones. Learn what the flu is and how it affects children—as well as how it may be treated and prevented.

The common cold, or upper respiratory infection (URI), is a viral illness that affects the protective lining of the nose and throat. More than 200 viruses can cause an upper respiratory infection, and it is one of the most common illnesses among children as it is highly contagious.

It’s back-to-school season and you’ve taught your child the basics of proper hand hygiene to keep themselves and others healthy . Your child now prefers to use hand sanitizer-only instead of handwashing with soap and water and asks you to place a bottle of “hand sani” on the bathroom sink. You’re proud of their initiative but you can’t help but wonder: Is hand sanitizer alone good enough to ward off the “bad” germs and keep our children healthy?

If your family is anything like mine, back-to-school season means an influx of new germs coming home with your child that can bring on a slew of new colds and illnesses for the entire family. With most schools now in session, now is the perfect time to teach your kids the importance of good hand hygiene to prevent getting themselves—and others—sick.