Pediatric Medicine

Pink eye – named for a notable reddish or pinkish eye color – is most frequently caused by a viral infection that inflames the transparent membrane (conjunctiva) that lines the eyelid and eyeball. When the small blood vessels in the conjunctiva become swollen or irritated, they’re more visible, leading to the whites of the eye becoming pink in color. Pink eye is also known as conjunctivitis.

Ear infections occur when the space behind the eardrum (the middle ear), becomes infected by bacteria or a virus trapping fluid behind the eardrum. The result can be pain and swelling. Ear infections often clear up on their own, simply requiring pain management until they do, however, some ear infections require antibiotics, or in the case of recurring ear infections, the placement of ear tubes.

The flu, or influenza, is an infection of portions of the respiratory system, mainly the nose, throat and lungs. Cases can be mild to severe, and in some cases, lead to death. Most people with the flu get better on their own, although some require more significant medical care or hospitalization.

Norovirus is a highly contagious, very common virus that can cause severe vomiting and diarrhea. While often confused with the flu, the viruses are unrelated. According to the CDC, norovirus is the most common cause of vomiting, diarrhea and foodborne illness. The virus often spreads through contaminated food or water on contaminated surfaces. It can also spread from person to person. For these reasons, it frequently spreads in close, crowded environments, such as hospitals, child care centers, schools, nursing homes, cruise ships and inclusive resorts.

Respiratory syncytial virus, commonly referred to as RSV, is an infection of the lungs and respiratory tract. It typically causes mild, cold-like symptoms. Most children have been infected with the virus by the time they turn two years old, and it can also infect adults. In rare cases, the infection can become serious enough to require hospitalization. 

In the United States, RSV is the most common cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia in children under the age of one. It can cause severe infection in babies 12 months or younger, older adults, people with pre-existing conditions such as heart and lung disease, or anyone who is immunocompromised.