700 Children's® – A Blog by Pediatric Experts

Posts by Matthew Washam, MD, MPH

father and daughter cooking together in a kitchen — H5 Bird Flu: Everything You Need to Know

Posted by: Matthew Washam, MD, MPH on Mar 24, 2025

Bird flu, or avian flu, is a naturally occurring illness caused by Type A influenza viruses. To minimize the risk of exposure to bird flu, follow these preventive measures recommended by the CDC.

Blog

Measles Virus: Facts for Families

Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads through the air from coughing and sneezing. It is a vaccine-preventable infection. Symptoms of measles usually occur one to two weeks after exposure to an infected individual.

Blog

4 Things to Know If You Think Your Child Has the Flu

Should influenza find its way to you and your family, you will be faced with the decision to seek medical care or let the virus run its course. Trust the judgement of your health care provider regarding testing and treatment.

All Topics

Browse by Author

About this Blog

Pediatric News You Can Use From America’s Largest Pediatric Hospital and Research Center

700 Children’s® features the most current pediatric health care information and research from our pediatric experts – physicians and specialists who have seen it all. Many of them are parents and bring a special understanding to what our patients and families experience. If you have a child – or care for a child – 700 Children’s was created especially for you.

View All Author Bios

Latest Posts

How to Care for Face Masks

Feb 23, 2021

Knowing how to take care of your face masks is vital in order to ensure they provide the best protection from COVID-19 and other germs and helps them last longer. Read More

Medical professional wearing mask holding syringe

6 Things to Know About the COVID-19 Vaccine

Dec 09, 2020

Scientists have made an effective and safe vaccine to help fight COVID-19, save lives and help people return to normal life. Here's what you need to know.
Read More

4 Flu Myths Busted

Nov 05, 2020

While medical professionals encourage everyone to get their annual flu shot, many buy into the long-held myths about the vaccine and miss opportunities to avoid getting sick. Read More

Baby staring near the camera while being held in parent's arms

Should My Baby Get a Flu Shot?

Nov 05, 2020

Flu season is here and flu vaccines are more readily available than ever before. You can obtain a flu shot at the grocery store, every corner drug store, community centers and certainly at your pediatrician’s office. Read More

Mother holding baby on her lap in a doctor's office, while a physician examines the baby.

Don’t Skip the Flu Shot: Soothe Your Child with These Distraction Techniques

Nov 05, 2020

As a physician, it’s tough to see our children twist and turn and cry and scream when it’s time for them to get their vaccines. All we want to do is soothe them and keep them healthy year-round, and we never like seeing them in pain. Read More

Mold in Children's Hospitals: What Parents Need to Know

Apr 27, 2020

For children with healthy immune systems, mold exposure from the environment is not dangerous. Some people who are sensitive to molds might develop allergy symptoms due to chronic exposure to high amounts of mold. Read More