Novant Health Today's Pediatrics

05/13/2026

What you need to know about Hantavirus?

You may have seen recent headlines about Hantavirus and the international outbreak tied to the Andes strain — but what exactly is it, and should you be concerned?

Hantavirus is a rare illness that can cause severe respiratory symptoms and, in some cases, be fatal. Most cases are linked to exposure to rodent droppings, urine or bites. What makes the Andes strain different: it has the potential for person-to-person spread, unlike most forms of Hantavirus. Officials have confirmed multiple cases connected to the outbreak, which is why awareness and precautions matter.

The good news: this is still considered a very rare illness and not something people typically contract through normal day-to-day outdoor activities. Pediatric infectious disease specialist Dr. Nazario Rivera-Chaparro shares precautions you can take:

✔️Avoid contact with rodents and rodent droppings.
✔️Use caution when cleaning areas with rodent infestation.
✔️Wash your hands thoroughly.
✔️Consider wearing a mask when cleaning enclosed spaces with possible rodent exposure.

https://www.wcnc.com/video/news/local/what-is-hatavirus-novant-health-doctor-explains-the-disease/275-71f37cda-e7e6-4b0f-b7d3-d91247aad7f0

05/08/2026

Podcast: What parents should know about pediatric sickle cell disease 👩‍🔬

An expert explains early signs, treatment options, and advances offering new hope for children with sickle cell disease.

04/17/2026

💤 Baby Not Sleeping Through the Night? 👶
What to know about sleep training at 4 months ❤️

https://www.novanthealth.org/healthy-headlines/is-sleep-training-the-right-choice-for-your-baby?fbclid=IwY2xjawRPEp5leHRuA2FlbQIxMQBicmlkETFDTGxCYzFwVXkyY3VYTTBBc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHo-vDmSosQFslSM6gEiS41IjpRMjEcLJWSmZ6wC9Alq7q-oCc07eqw_LUUqg_aem_iBpAdFbhEDyC3QXnlN5QJw

Learn what sleep training is, when babies are ready for it, and how common methods like the Ferber approach, “cry it out,” and the chair method can help infants develop healthier sleep habits.

04/02/2026

🦷💙 One day your baby is getting their first tiny teeth… and before you know it, they’re not such a baby anymore!

Dr. Soren Johnson shares what parents really need to know about baby teeth (and what you can skip 😉).

Keeping it simple, helpful, and focused on what matters most for your little one’s smile!

One day, your child's tiny first two teeth are growing, the next, your baby isn't such a baby anymore.

Dr. Soren Johnson breaks down what parents actually need to know about baby teeth (and what you can skip). https://www.novanthealth.org/healthy-headlines/how-to-care-for-your-babys-teeth-in-the-first-year-from-teethers-to-toothpaste

03/27/2026

Do spring allergies have you suffering? 🌷🪻

03/18/2026

Struggling with a picky eater at home? You’re definitely not alone! 🍓🥦

Novant Health registered dietitian Kelly Homesley understands the challenge and is here to help. She shares simple, practical tips—and answers a common question: can drinking fruits and veggies really replace eating them? 🥤🤔

Check it out and get some helpful ideas for your family! 💡💚

https://www.novanthealth.org/healthy-headlines/why-smoothies-are-better-than-juice-for-kids?fbclid=IwY2xjawQngRxleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFhMm1tMTg1NnNiMFRna013c3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHgZqPzmkQDyD8eQY5PRC0bRcRA99f0PJDFJiMp9CLrl1nylVB4o_RAorpt3r_aem_otswRZ2_9xsKkkrlwXlbMQ

Registered dietitian Kelly Homesley offers guidance on smoothies vs. juice for kids and includes nutritious smoothie recipes.

03/06/2026

Daylight saving time is this Sunday, and even though we know it’s coming, it still finds a way to sneak up on us. If the time change throws off your sleep, a few small adjustments can help your body reset and get back on track:
🌞 Get morning sunlight. Natural light helps reset your internal clock.
🥗 More fiber and protein with less sugar and alcohol = better sleep.
❄️ Keep your bedroom cool and quiet.
📵 Skip phones and laptops before bed to protect your sleep cycle.
🧘 If you can’t sleep, don’t stress. Try deep breathing or a quiet, relaxing activity

02/12/2026

🤧 Does your cough have some serious attachment issues?

If it’s been hanging around longer than expected, it might be time to look a little closer. Dr. Austin Sherman shares his top recommendations for managing a lingering cough — including what he calls “potentially one of the best cough medicines.” 👨‍⚕️✨

Don’t ignore a cough that just won’t quit. Getting the right guidance can help you feel better faster and get back to your routine. 💙

If symptoms persist or concern you, be sure to check in with your healthcare provider.



https://www.novanthealth.org/healthy-headlines/got-a-cough-you-cant-shake?fbclid=IwY2xjawP7DdJleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETExMHN1WnhZaXY3b01DVDRZc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHoTBxJL03M2a8m2ERnW0ayyW-fpIubtSHUT4lBG-ekwDGmYMjeYj2aMlL83T_aem_HISD9vgEcCRN5KMBaECT0Q

Respiratory illness levels are elevated across the country. Here's what you can do if you come down with one.

02/10/2026

🤱🧸 Measles concerns for your baby?
💉 When is the right time to vaccinate — and can it happen sooner than age 1?
Your questions, answered 💙

Measles outbreaks are making lots of parents anxious because babies don’t get the vaccine until age 1. Should they request it sooner?

01/30/2026

✅ Are Kids’ Knee Injuries Increasing? ⚽🦵
Know what to watch for and how new treatments help young athletes bounce back.

https://www.novanthealth.org/healthy-headlines/protecting-young-athletes-knees?fbclid=IwY2xjawPpk1BleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFqNmFWbWdiSVFZWjJIcVpPc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHr7NLeJ3Z2sW3P2FDrmmclw-mM0wao6TBD5UyVVMh423r9agTQd54hEvvUtv_aem_EZE30QEjVsIGybc8sWVy0A

Knee injuries are on the rise in young athletes, from ACL tears to patellar issues that can sideline a promising season. Orthopedic surgeon Dr. Marc Haro breaks down what's behind the trend and how to recognize warning signs.

01/21/2026

🤧❄️ Flu Season Fun Facts!
Because healthy kids = happy kids all season long 😊