During a physical exam, healthcare providers can review a child’s immunization records and ensure that they are up to date on all recommended vaccines. and sometimes bruising, swelling and rashes at the injection site. We usually recommend having medication like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin/Advil) at home in case of fever and pain. Massaging the site of vaccination (either thighs or arm) throughout the day will help with the pain and bruising/swelling; you can also use an ice pack if the area gets really swollen.” For the Hawaii Department of Health’s immunization requirements (and other information), go to https://health.hawaii.gov/docd/vaccinesimmunizations/school-health-requirements. What is tuberculosis (TB) and how can I know my child doesn’t have it? TB is “a disease caused by a bacteria that is spread through the air,” says the Hawaii Department of Health. “It usually May/June 2024 HAWAII PARENT 145 affects the lungs but may damage other parts of the body and cause serious illness. People catch TB from someone who already has it - no one is born with it. Anyone, of any nationality or age, can get TB, and without treatment, they can die. The good news is that with proper medication, TB can be cured.” “There are different ways to screen for TB,” says Dr. Diep. “The simplest way is to do the TB questionnaire, which consists of questions (only one page) that assess that child’s risk of having TB. This looks at symptoms such as night sweats, coughing up blood, weight loss and more.” “Another way to screen for TB is to place a PPD skin test, which is placed at the doctor’s office and then the patient returns in 2-3 days to have the test read,” continues Dr. Diep. “The last way is to do a blood test which is able to measure the amount of TB in the body. Some countries, “A physical exam allows us as pediatricians to check in on the health, growth, and development of our patients.”
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