Infectious Disease

Infections happen to every child at one point or another. Caused by germs, like viruses, bacteria, fungi or parasites, infections can range from mild to severe. Often, children who are sick with an infection recover on their own or receive care from their regular pediatrician.

Yet sometimes an infection can be difficult to diagnose, may require specialized treatment or may be complicated by a pre-existing condition, such as asthma. In some cases, troubling symptoms may mimic an infection but are actually due to another illness.

Here’s why families turn to us for care:

Vast knowledge of infectious disease management. Mary Bridge Children’s infectious disease specialists are doctors who are board certified in both general pediatrics and pediatric infectious disease, reflecting years of additional training after medical school in these specialties. Our team of experts offers comprehensive care including diagnosis, treatment, consultation and education.

Expertise in diagnosing infections and other conditions. Sometimes symptoms may suggest that your child has an infection when they actually have a different disease or condition. We provide comprehensive diagnostic evaluations, helping to figure out the root cause of symptoms that can mimic infections. We also guide the management and referral process and provide education about your child’s illness so you feel comfortable caring for them.

Experience treating a range of infections. Our infectious disease specialists are skilled in treating unusual or severe infections in healthy children, as well as difficult-to-control infections in children with compromised immune systems. We also evaluate patients for recurrent unexplained fevers or possible immunodeficiencies — disorders where part of the immune system is lacking or not working the way it should.

Prudent use of antibiotics. Historically, antibiotics were frequently prescribed to treat infections; however, antibiotics are not always the answer. Overuse of antibiotics has led to the rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the United States, which can make infections harder to treat. Research has shown that involving infectious disease specialists in the management of complicated infections reduces unnecessary use of antibiotics. At Mary Bridge Children’s, we carefully evaluate every child’s situation, only administering antibiotics when necessary.

Advanced treatment from collaborative professionals. We manage pediatric infections in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Our team partners with home infusion services to provide outpatient intravenous antibiotics when needed. We also partner with many other specialists at Mary Bridge Children’s, including orthopedic physicians, surgeons and others to treat infections.

A doctor’s referral is required to schedule an appointment with our infectious disease specialists. On the day of your appointment, please arrive 15 minutes early to allow ample time for checking in and filling out necessary paperwork. Families who arrive more than 10 minutes late may have to reschedule their appointment.

The following information will help you plan for your visit.

Initial appointments

During your first appointment, your child’s doctor will take a detailed health history and perform a physical exam. Depending on your child’s situation, further diagnostic testing may be necessary.

After we make a diagnosis, together we develop a plan to treat your child’s condition, and then share that plan with your child’s primary care provider.

Preparing for your appointment

Following these tips can help you get the most out of your appointment.

Obtain medical records. Ask your child’s primary care provider to send chart notes, X-rays and any lab results regarding your child’s condition. If tests were performed outside Mary Bridge Children’s or MultiCare, please bring these with you.

Bring a list of prescription drugs. Include all medications, vitamins and supplements your child is taking.

Discuss the upcoming clinic visit if your child is developmentally ready. A first appointment typically consists of a medical history and a physical exam.

Arrange care for siblings. If you are unable to arrange care, please ensure other children can engage in a quiet activity so you can focus on the visit.

Arrive 15 minutes early. Being early ensures adequate time for checking in and filling out any necessary paperwork. If you are more than 10 minutes late, we may have to reschedule your appointment.

Turn off cellphones and pagers. It’s easier for both you and the infectious disease respiratory specialist to focus on your child when communication devices are switched off. This also helps maintain a calm, quiet environment for all patients.