This Week in Pediatrics
Influenza Vaccine Effectiveness Against Pediatric Death in the United States: 2016–2025 | Pediatrics | American Academy of Pediatrics
Pediatrics 2026; e2026076453. 10.1542/peds.2026-076453 ... Seasonal influenza vaccination has been shown to reduce the risk of influenza and severe complications among children aged 6 months and older.
Measles Cases and Outbreaks | Measles (Rubeola) | CDC
There have been 32 new outbreaks** reported in 2026, and 93% of confirmed cases (2,082 of 2,231) are outbreak-associated (717 from outbreaks starting in 2026 and 1,365 from outbreaks that started in 2025).
HealthyChildren.org - From the American Academy of Pediatrics
Warning signs of heat illness in children and tips to stay cool.
Research of the Day
Iron Deficiency in Infancy and Long-Term Cognitive Outcomes: 10-Year Follow-Up
This prospective cohort followed children with iron deficiency anemia in infancy through age 10, comparing cognitive outcomes to iron-sufficient peers. Despite iron repletion in infancy, children with early anemia showed persistent differences in executive function and spatial memory.
Key findings: (1) Early iron deficiency associated with lower scores on math and reading assessments; (2) Differences in brain structure observed on MRI at age 10; (3) Duration of deficiency correlated with magnitude of effect.
Emphasize prevention through dietary counseling and appropriate screening. Iron-rich complementary foods should be introduced at 6 months. Consider iron supplementation in high-risk populations.
Popular Beliefs
Sugar makes children hyperactive
What the evidence shows: Multiple double-blind, placebo-controlled studies have found no significant effect of sugar on behavior or cognitive performance in children, even in those reportedly 'sensitive' to sugar. The perceived hyperactivity is often due to the context (parties, holidays) or parental expectations. However, limiting added sugars remains important for dental health and nutrition.
Remove ticks with a lit match or petroleum jelly
What the evidence shows: These methods can cause the tick to regurgitate into the wound, increasing disease transmission risk. Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick close to the skin and pull upward with steady pressure. Save the tick for identification if possible.
Teething causes high fevers and diarrhea
What the evidence shows: While teething may cause mild symptoms (gum irritation, drooling, slight temperature elevation), it does not cause high fever (>102°F/38.9°C) or diarrhea. These symptoms should prompt evaluation for other causes. Attributing significant illness to teething may delay diagnosis of serious conditions.
Behaviors
Green Space Exposure and Mental Health in Urban Adolescents
This longitudinal study followed 5,000 urban adolescents over 4 years, using GPS tracking to measure green space exposure. Greater exposure to parks and nature was associated with lower rates of depression and anxiety, independent of socioeconomic factors.
Key findings: (1) 20% lower depression risk with daily green space exposure; (2) Benefits dose-dependent—more exposure meant better outcomes; (3) Active use (sports, walking) showed greater benefits than passive exposure.
Encourage outdoor time as part of mental health promotion. For families in urban areas, identify nearby parks and green spaces. Nature exposure is an accessible, cost-effective mental health intervention.
Genetics
Genetic Testing in Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: Sports Participation Guidance
Updated guidelines incorporate genetic testing results into sports participation decisions for young athletes with HCM. Some genetically positive but phenotypically negative individuals may safely participate in athletics with appropriate monitoring.
Key findings: (1) Risk stratification improved with genetic markers; (2) Shared decision-making framework more nuanced than previous blanket restrictions; (3) Regular cardiac monitoring essential regardless of sport participation.
Genetic testing can refine, but not eliminate, cardiac risk assessment. Refer to cardiology for any athlete with suspected or confirmed HCM. Shared decision-making with families is appropriate.