This Week in Pediatrics
JAMA Pediatrics – The Science of Child and Adolescent Health
Explore the latest in child health including food and nutrition, Kawasaki disease and C difficile, effects of media, and more. Formerly Archives of
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).
Inside RFK Jr.’s push to dismantle decades of U.S. vaccine policy | CNN
Furthermore, one of his most ambitious changes to public health - removing vaccines for six out of 17 diseases from the recommended childhood vaccination schedule - has been put on hold by a federal judge in response to a lawsuit from the American ...
Research of the Day
Universal Depression Screening in Adolescents: Implementation and Outcomes
This pragmatic trial implemented universal depression screening using PHQ-9 Modified for Adolescents across 50 primary care practices. Universal screening identified 3x more cases of moderate-to-severe depression compared to targeted screening.
Key findings: (1) 18% of screened adolescents had positive screens requiring follow-up; (2) Early identification led to 40% increase in mental health referrals; (3) False positive rate acceptable at 12%.
Implement annual depression screening for all patients 12-21 years. Establish referral pathways and follow-up protocols. Address barriers to mental health access in your community.
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.
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.
Eating carrots dramatically improves vision
What the evidence shows: While carrots contain vitamin A important for eye health, eating extra carrots won't improve normal vision or eliminate the need for glasses. Vitamin A deficiency can cause vision problems, but this is rare in developed countries with varied diets.
Behaviors
Bedtime Routine Consistency and Child Behavior: Observational Study
This analysis of 5,000 parent surveys examined the relationship between bedtime routine consistency and daytime behavior. Children with consistent, calming bedtime routines had fewer behavioral problems and better emotional regulation.
Key findings: (1) Inconsistent routines associated with 2x behavioral difficulties; (2) Routines including reading showed strongest effects; (3) Benefits seen across all age groups studied (2-10 years).
Bedtime routines matter for more than just sleep—they shape behavior and emotional regulation. Help families develop simple, consistent routines even during busy periods.
Genetics
Gene Therapy Shows Promise for Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 1
Long-term follow-up data from the Phase 3 clinical trial of onasemnogene abeparvovec gene therapy reveals sustained motor milestone achievements in children with SMA Type 1 treated before 6 months of age. At 5-year follow-up, 94% of early-treated patients maintained the ability to sit independently, and 68% achieved independent walking—outcomes historically unprecedented in untreated SMA Type 1.
The study also reports on safety outcomes, with no new treatment-related serious adverse events emerging after year 2. These results strengthen the case for newborn screening and early intervention in SMA.
This data reinforces the critical importance of early diagnosis and treatment in SMA. Support newborn screening initiatives in your state. For families with SMA history, discuss carrier testing and ensure rapid referral to neuromuscular specialists if symptoms arise.