As we approach the two year anniversary of the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, we are once again looking at the latest Covid surge in the rearview mirror. As always, the latest guidance can change quickly but we are seeing some positive changes in our state as we move closer to spring. Below will outline the most significant changes that our state is experiencing.
COVID:
Connecticut will be eliminating the statewide school mask mandate effective March 1, 2022.
Governor's Statement on School Mask Requirements
Each school system will now decide if mask wearing will be optional or mandatory for students, teachers, and staff based on several factors in consultation with public health professionals, educators and community stakeholders. Here are the factors that will go into making this decision at the community level:
CT Department of Public Health Guidance for School Mask Requirements
When making the decision for your child to continue masking at school please consider the following questions. What is the vaccination status of your household? Does your child or anyone in your household have a condition that would predispose them to complications of Covid-19? Does your child live with anyone over the age of 65 years old? If you’d like assistance in making the decision about masking for your child, please consult our office. We are happy to lend a hand in what may be best for your child and family.
Above all, please be respectful of everyone’s decision regarding the masking of their child. We all want what is best for our children.
MASKS IN OUR OFFICE:
If you notice the last paragraph of the Governor’s statement, masks are still mandated in all health care facilities. Therefore all patients over 2 years old and caregivers will still be required to wear a surgical mask in our office.
Here is a helpful study that shows the effectiveness of indoor masking. It is still advantageous to wear a mask in an indoor setting even if others are not.
FLU:
Although we have not seen much flu activity in our region this winter, it is impossible to predict if that will change with the end of mandatory masking in schools. It’s not too late to get your vaccine. Please call to schedule a nurse visit. If you are coming to the office for your annual physical, we will offer it to you at that time.
MENTAL HEALTH:
The last two years has taken a toll on all of us. We have seen this perhaps most of all in our children. It can be uncomfortable to talk with your child about mental health concerns you might have. Parents who feel uneasy discussing difficult topics with their child can start the conversation with their pediatrician. Our office can be a source of support in navigating these difficult issues.
Your provider may ask your child to fill out a questionnaire that asks how they are doing. Older children are encouraged to talk privately to their provider about their mental health.
Children often experience difficult thoughts. Here is a list of signs that your child may need more support:
How to Talk About Mental Health With Your Child and Pediatrician
SIMILAC RECALL:
Just another reminder from our February 20, 2022 post:
There is a voluntary recall of Similac powdered formula made by Abbott Nutrition. This includes Similac, Alimentum, and Elecare. These particular formulas were produced in their plant in Sturgis, Michigan with an expiration of April 1, 2022, or later.
There are four cases of infant infections with Cronobacter sakazakii and Salmonella Newport in Minnesota, Ohio and Texas. All of these infants consumed Similac powdered formula. There is an ongoing investigation. Liquid formula has not been recalled. Please read the FDA announcement for specific details:
See the link below to input Lot numbers:
A LONG GOODBYE
It is with great JOY and SADNESS, that we announce that Dr. Patrick Alvino will be retiring in the Spring of 2022. He has, over the years, developed wonderful relationships with families. It will be difficult to break them. In anticipation of his retirement, we are requesting that families who routinely see Dr. Alvino make their next physical exam appointment with a new provider. Dr. Alvino will help those families who see him for their mental health concerns to find providers who are appropriate for their child’s needs.
Dr Alvino’s last day will be May 26, 2022!