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Should I still get the vaccine if I've already had Covid-19?
Yes, the CDC recommends the use of vaccination and booster doses to help protect against Covid-19, even if you have already had a Covid infection. It is possible to be re-infected, especially as new variants emerge.
Covid-19 Booster Shots
Covid-19 Booster Shots
Who needs a Covid-19 booster shot?
Currently, the CDC recommends a Covid-19 booster shot for everyone 12 and older. There are currently no booster recommendation for children aged 5-11, therefore children in this age group are considered fully vaccinated 2-weeks after completing the 2-dose primary series.
When should I get a booster?
For those who received the Moderna or Pfizer primary series, a booster shot is recommended at least 5 months after completing the primary series. For those who received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, a Moderna or Pfizer booster is recommended at least 2 months after the initial vaccine.
Which vaccine should I get for my booster?
Adults 18+ may choose Moderna or Pfizer for their booster dose. The CDC updated guidance which allows you to choose a booster dose that is the same or different from the Primary series that was received.
Teens 12-17 should only get a Pfizer booster
(CDC, 2022)Avoiding Winter Health Issues
Avoiding Winter Health Issues
Asthma-Be cautious during winter by staying indoors on cold and windy days. If you go out, cover your nose and mouth and keep inhalers close by.
Norovirus(vomiting bug)-Wash your hands frequently, disinfect common surfaces and objects, and wash any items, such as clothes and bed sheets, that could have become contaminated.
Frostbite-Limit your time outdoors if it’s a cold and windy day, dress in several layers and move around to keep blood flowing.
Colds and the flu-Wash your hands frequently, avoid touching your nose, mouth, and eyes, get plenty of sleep, and avoid people who are already sick.
Sore throats- Wear a scarf to keep your face covered outside. If you do get a sore throat, gargling with salt water to help with relief.
Cold sores -Make sure you’re getting enough sleep and taking time for relaxing activities. It also helps to keep your lips moisturized.
Dry skin-Moisturize more than usual, especially after taking a bath or shower. Wear gloves and scarves when outside to cover exposed skin.
(BayCare Clinic, 2018)
Heart Health for Kids
Heart Health for Kids
Preventing heart disease starts in childhood. Kids in preschool need at least 2 hours a day and Kindergarten and up need at least 1 hour of physical activity every day. This does not need to be all at one time. It can be short bursts of activity.
TIP: For younger children, it’s all about fun. Rather than “exercise,” think “active play.” If their cheeks are pink, they’re breathing faster and they’ve broken a sweat, they’re getting the physical activity they need.
TIP: As children get older, the recommended 60 minutes of physical activity each day should include muscle-building activities (like push-ups) and bone-strengthening activities (like running or jumping), in addition to aerobic activity
click here for ideas for activities for younger and older children.
Click here for more tips on raising heart healthy kids and teens.
Tips to help kids maintain a healthy weight
Tips for talking to kids about NEVER smoking
Tips for helping kids eat a well-balanced diet.
Oral Health
Oral Health
Cavities are one of the most common chronic diseases of childhood in the United States. Untreated cavities can cause pain and infections that may lead to problems with eating, speaking, playing, and learning. Children who have poor oral health often miss more school. Here are tips to improve your child's oral health:
Brush teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste
Floss daily
Drink tap water that contains fluoride
Ask your child's dentist to apply sealants when appropriate
Discuss healthy food options with your child
(CDC, 2021)
Healthy Valentine Snacks for Kids
Healthy Valentine Snacks for Kids
Cupid's Vanilla Berry Smoothie
Cupid's Vanilla Berry Smoothie
Ingredients
8 ounces Horizon Organic low-fat Vanilla Milk
½ cup Horizon Organic Fat-Free Plain Yogurt (can substitute with vanilla flavored yogurt for a sweeter smoothie)
½ cup frozen red berries
½ cup ice
Instructions
Place all ingredients in a blender and puree until smooth. Divide between two glasses and serve immediately.
Strawberry Heart Man Snack
Strawberry Heart Man Snack
What you will need to make the Strawberry Heart Man Snacks:
Strawberries
Toothpicks
Pretzel Sticks
Mini Marshmallows
Conversation Hearts
Instructions
Start by cutting off the green strawberry top and then cutting the strawberry in half lengthwise. Using your toothpick…attach the sides together to form a heart.
Add pretzel sticks for the arms and legs…attach mini marshmallows for the feet and hands.
Top of the Strawberry Heart Men with candy eyes and a heart conversation mouth! Such a fun snack that the kids can help make! You can use small dots of honey to stick on the eyes and conversation hearts. Especially if they will not be eaten right away.
(Forkly Food Blog, 2020)
COVID vs. Flu
COVID vs. Flu
COVID-19 seems to spread more easily and can cause more serious illness in some individuals compared to the Flu. COVID-19 can also take longer for people to show symptoms and individuals can be contagious for longer. Both COVID-19 and Flu can range from no symptoms (asymptomatic) to severe symptoms. COVID-19 and the Flu have similar symptoms, so testing may be needed to help confirm a diagnosis. (CDC, 2022)
Important Information from Parkway Health Services
Important Information from Parkway Health Services
Important forms can be found here: Health Forms
Current illness guidelines can be found here: Illness Guidelines
Updated COVID-19 information can be found here: Coronavirus: Parkway Community Health Dashboard
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