ANNOUNCEMENTS: (Español)

We now have a limited supply of vaccine for the H1N1 virus. We currently have both the injectable and nasal spray form available for ALL PATIENTS. The quantity of our supply will vary widely, so contact your child's doctor regarding availability and as to whether or not your child might be of higher risk.

"DUE TO THE HIGH VOLUME OF ILL PATIENTS AND THE DRAMATIC NEED FOR VACCINES, BEGINNING NOVEMBER 1ST, FORT WORTH PEDIATRICS WILL REQUIRE AN APPOINTMENT FOR VACCINE ADMINISTRATION."

You will not require an appointment to see a specific doctor and no additional co-pay will be required for such visits, but after November 1st we will no longer be able to accommodate"walk-in shots." We feel we must take this measure to minimize interaction between ill patients, specifically those with potential H1N1 infection, and the populations of patients we want to immunize. We realize that this might create some confusion and inconvenience, and we ask for your patience and understanding as we try to care for our patients as best we can.

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CAR SAFETY CHECKS

Once again, representatives from the Texas Department of Public Safety will be coming to the offices of Fort Worth Pediatrics to conduct FREE car seat safety inspections. Just come to any of our respective parking lots between the hours below (no appointment needed) and ensure your little ones are as safe as possible in the car.

Spring:

Henderson Office - May 10, 2010 at 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Merrimac Office - May 24, 2010 at 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
Southwest Office- April 26, 2010 at 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.

Fall:

Henderson Office - September 13, 2010 at 9:00am - 3:00pm
Merrimac Office - October 4, 2010 at 9:00am-3:00pm
Southwest Office- September 27, 2010 at 9:00am-3:00pm

Texas Health Resources, formerly known to many in Fort Worth as the Harris Hospitals, provides FREE car seat safety checks for any age. Just call 877-THR-WELL ext 4 (877-847-9355 ext 4) to schedule.

KEEP YOUR TODDLER IN A REAR-FACING CAR SEAT UNTIL AGE 2 (NOT 1)

New research indicates that toddlers are more than five times safer riding in a rear facing car safety seat up to their second birthday. A child's lower extremities are unlikely to be injured rear-facing and the fragile skull and neck are much safer.

The following are safety tips for car seat use:

• All infants (less than 12 months) should rid rear-facing in either an infant car seat or convertible seat.
  
• If an infant car seat is used, the infant should be switched to a rear-facing convertible car seat once the maximum height (when the infant's head is within 1 inch of the top of the seat) and weight (usually 22 to 32 pounds) have been reached for that infant seat as suggested by the car seat manufacturer.
  
• Toddlers should remain rear-facing in a convertible car seat until they have reached the maximum height and weight recommended for the model, or at least the age of 2.

To see if your car seat is installed properly and to find a certified passenger safety technician in your area, visit http://seatcheck.org or http://nhtsa.dot.gov.cps/cpsfitting/index.cfm.

You can also call 866-SEATCHECK (866-732-8243) or 888-327-4236.

CURRENT TOPICS:

• H1N1 INFLUENZA
• Asthma
• Sun Exposure
• Insect Bites
• Water Safety
• After-Hours Calls