Author: Phillips Pediatrics

Summer is here—and with it comes sunshine, pool days, family vacations, and plenty of outdoor adventures! At Phillips Pediatrics in Oxford, MS, we want to help you and your family make the most of the season while staying safe and healthy. Here are our updated summer safety tips for 2025 to keep your little ones protected and your peace of mind intact.

Sun Safety: Protecting Your Child’s Skin

The Mississippi sun can be intense, so protecting your child from UV rays is a top priority. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher at least 15 minutes before going outside—and don’t forget to reapply every two hours, or after swimming and sweating. Wide-brimmed hats, UV-protective clothing, and sunglasses add extra layers of defense.

Allergy Awareness

Summer means more time outside—but also more exposure to allergens. If your child has grass allergies, try to avoid freshly mowed lawns. Also, for safety: kids under 16 should not operate ride-on mowers, and those under 12 should steer clear of walk-behind models.

Gear Up for Outdoor Fun

Helmets are a must when riding bikes, scooters, or skateboards. Make sure all protective gear fits properly and is worn consistently. Avoid allowing children to use hoverboards or electric scooters on roads or uneven surfaces.

Beat the Heat

Never leave a child or pet in a parked car, even for a few minutes. Vehicle interiors can reach dangerous temperatures quickly. Stay hydrated, take breaks in the shade, and dress your kids in light, breathable fabrics to prevent overheating.

Bug Bite Prevention

Insect bites can carry diseases like Lyme or West Nile virus. Use insect repellent with DEET or another EPA-approved ingredient, especially in wooded or grassy areas. Check your child for ticks after outdoor play.

Fireworks Safety

Fireworks are a summer favorite—but safety should always come first. Attend public displays when possible. If using fireworks at home, follow local laws, supervise closely, and leave the lighting to adults.

When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors

If you hear thunder or see lightning, head inside immediately. Avoid water, metal objects, and open fields. Lightning can strike even before rain begins, so stay alert to weather conditions.

Water Safety Basics

Whether you’re at the pool, lake, or beach, supervision is critical. For young kids or those who aren’t strong swimmers, use U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets (like Speedo infant jackets). Avoid puddle jumpers for children under 30 pounds—they don’t provide the same safety level.

Boating Safety

Teens and adults should always wear life jackets when boating—and skip the alcohol while on the water. Remind everyone to jump feet first into unknown water to avoid injuries.

Designate a Water Watcher

Assign one adult to keep their eyes on swimmers at all times. This person should avoid distractions like phones or books and be a confident swimmer themselves.

Know Your Beach & Lake Safety

Check for posted water quality alerts, flag warnings, and rip current advisories. These warnings are there for your protection, so take them seriously and follow all local guidelines.

Smart Sand Play

Digging in the sand is fun—but it can be risky. Keep sand holes no deeper than your child’s knee and supervise all digging. Deeper holes can collapse and trap children inside.

Enjoy Summer the Safe Way

There’s nothing better than summer memories made under sunny skies. By staying aware and following these updated safety tips, your family can enjoy the season to the fullest.

Have specific questions about summer health or safety? Contact Phillips Pediatrics at (662) 371-1543 or visit our pediatric clinic in Oxford, MS. We’re here to help your child thrive all year long!

Here’s to a safe, sunny, and joy-filled summer!

As spring arrives in Oxford, Mississippi, so does the seasonal pollen that can leave your child feeling miserable. If your little one is dealing with a runny nose, congestion, itchy eyes, or a persistent cough, you’re not alone. Many children experience these common allergy symptoms during this time of year, and it’s important to manage them early to help your child stay comfortable. Spring allergy symptoms typically develop between 2-5 years of age and can worsen over time. Here are some tips from Dr. Phillips to help alleviate symptoms:

1. Keep Doors and Windows Closed

Pollen can sneak in through open windows and doors, especially during the early morning and evening hours when counts are highest. Keeping your home sealed can significantly reduce your child’s exposure to allergens.

2. Bath time and Clean Clothes

Pollen sticks to hair, skin, and clothing. After your child spends time outdoors, make sure they wash up and change into clean clothes, especially before bed, to avoid transferring allergens to bedding and causing nighttime reactions.

3. Use Nasal Saline and Steroid Sprays

Saline rinses help clear pollen from the nasal passages. Nasal steroid sprays, such as Flonase, may be prescribed once daily after the saline to reduce inflammation and control symptoms. These medications are first line of defense for Spring Allergies.

4. Daily Antihistamines

Long-acting antihistamines like Zyrtec, Allegra, Claritin, or Xyzal are often prescribed daily to manage allergy symptoms. These medications are less sedating than older options like Benadryl. For breakthrough symptoms, Benadryl can help provide additional relief.

5. Eye Relief for Allergies

For itchy, red, or watery eyes, cold compresses and artificial tears can provide relief. If your child needs more help, ask your pediatrician about prescription eye drops like Pataday (Olopatadine).

6. Don’t Skip Medications

If your child has asthma or more severe allergy symptoms, it’s important not to skip prescribed allergy medications. Consistency is key to preventing flare-ups and keeping symptoms under control. If you’re running low on medication or need a refill, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

We’re Here to Help

Pollen season can be tough, but with the right approach, your child can feel better and enjoy the spring season. At Phillips Pediatrics, we’re available Monday through Friday for in-office visits and telehealth consultations. You can now use our patient portal for online scheduling.

Did you know that you should start brushing your child’s teeth with fluoride anti-cavity toothpaste once he or she is ONE?  A smear of toothpaste twice a day, whether swallowed or spit, can help prevent cavities. PHILLIPS PEDIATRICS encourages early oral health and applies FLUORIDE varnish every 6 months until your child sees a dentist. He or she should establish a DENTAL HOME by the age of TWO.

Here’s What Nurse Practitioner, Emily, has to say…

Healthy Skin and YOU

It can be so overwhelming to walk the skincare aisle. There must be a thousand products! Not to mention the endless videos on TikTok on skincare. No, you do not need hyaluronic acid at age twelve! So what is really needed for healthy skin?

First, washing your face is so important! I recommend washing your face twice daily with a gentle facial cleanser. Cerave and Cetaphil are great brands to start with. Follow with a light moisturizer. Be sure to wash your face gently; aggressive scrubbing just irritates the skin further. Be sure when choosing makeup and other skin products to look for products that are “non-comedogenic.”

If still having acne breakthroughs, try selecting a face wash or spot treatment with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. These can be drying, so try adding them every other night at first and then building up to daily.

Still struggling to get clear skin? No problem! We love to take care of your skincare needs. Phillips Pediatrics offers a range of acne treatments, including topical and oral medications for acne flares to daily preventative medications. We’d love to help your teen feel their best!

Hello, spooky season lovers! As Halloween approaches, it’s time to think about keeping our little monsters healthy! Phillips Pediatrics is excited to remind you about our ongoing October campaign: “Say Boo to the Flu & RSV Too!”

Trick or Treat Yourself to a Vaccine!

Flu Shots Available:

• Who: Parents and patients aged 6 months and older
• When: Monday – Friday, 8:00 am to 12:00 pm and 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm
• How: Walk-In. We are happy to file parent vaccines to insurance. If the policy is different from your child, you must provide a copy of your insurance card. Self-pay rate is $50.

RSV Vaccine Available:

• Who: Babies aged 0-7 months
• When: Monday – Friday, 8:00 am to 12:00 pm and 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm
• How: Walk-In. If your baby has RSV risk factors and needs to be scheduled during the newborn hour, please call the office.

Walk-In, Don’t Haunt!

No Appointment Needed! Just come on by whenever it works for you.

• When: Monday – Friday, 8:00 am to 12:00 pm and 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm, closed at lunch.

Why Get Vaccinated?

By getting your flu shot and RSV vaccine, you’re not just protecting your family; you’re helping to keep our whole community healthy. It’s a great way to say “Boo!” to those pesky viruses!

Flu and RSV will peak after Halloween. Do NOT wait until we start seeing an increase in cases. The more herd immunity we get before the peak of the season, the milder the season will be.

So grab your little ones and swing by our walk-in clinic. Let’s make this October safe, fun, and filled with treats, not tricks!

Remember: Say Boo to the Flu & RSV Too! We can’t wait to see you!

Stay spooky and healthy! 🦇✨

August is National Breastfeeding Month, a wonderful time to celebrate the many ways mothers nurture their babies. For many moms, especially those balancing work and family life, a breast pump is an essential tool. Whether you’re a first-time mom or an experienced parent, understanding how to use a breast pump effectively can make all the difference in maintaining a healthy milk supply and ensuring your baby gets the best start in life.

Why Consider Pumping?

If you plan to be away from your baby for extended periods—such as returning to work or running errands—a breast pump becomes invaluable. It helps relieve engorgement, allows others to assist with feedings, and supports building and maintaining a consistent milk supply. Pumps work by mimicking the natural suckling patterns of a breastfeeding baby, which can be a game-changer in managing your breastfeeding journey.

The Rise of Wearable and Portable Pumps

Recent advancements have led to a surge in wearable, portable, and battery-operated pumps, making on-the-go pumping more convenient than ever. While these pumps offer incredible flexibility, some moms report a decrease in milk supply due to poor fit or battery issues. It’s crucial to choose a pump that suits your needs and maintains effective performance.

Comfort and Sizing: Key to a Successful Pumping Experience

Pumping should never be painful. Initially, you might feel some discomfort as your nipples stretch and milk begins to flow, but this should be mild and similar to a comfortable breastfeeding sensation. A proper fit is essential for comfort and effective milk removal.

Here’s a quick guide from the desk of Nurse Sierra Ashe, BSN, RN, CLC:

1. Measure Your Nipples: Use a ruler with centimeters (cm) or a nipple ruler (available on Amazon) to measure your nipples. Check out the diagram below for guidance on how to measure at home. Re-measure before you start pumping, and again at 6 weeks postpartum. If you notice changes in comfort or output, re-measure to ensure proper flange size.

2. Understanding Flange Size: The flange is the funnel-shaped part of the pump that creates a vacuum seal with your areola. Correct sizing is crucial to avoid discomfort and ensure efficient milk expression. Always refer to your pump’s recommendations for the appropriate flange size.

3. Regular Maintenance: Pump parts, like flanges and valves, often need replacement every 3 months. If you purchased your pump new, check the manufacturer’s guidelines. For second-hand pumps, replace these parts before use to avoid issues with milk supply due to worn-out components. Tubing, which can’t be sanitized, is best replaced if it’s second-hand.

Choosing the Right Wearable Pump

Several popular wearable pumps are making waves in the market, including the Willow 3.0 & Willow Go, Elivie Stride, and MomCozy. Each has unique features, so research to find the one that best aligns with your breastfeeding goals.

Insurance and Pump Options

The type of pump covered by insurance can vary. Contact your insurance provider to learn about your options or use resources like Aeroflow Breastpumps to check coverage details.

Need Help? We’re Here for You!

If you encounter challenges with pumping or have questions about your equipment, we’d be delighted to assist you here at Phillips Pediatrics. Additionally, while many Facebook groups offer advice on wearable pumps, seek out those moderated by Certified Lactation Counselors (CLCs) or International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) for the most accurate information.

Happy National Breastfeeding Month from our team to you! Remember, whether you’re breastfeeding or pumping, you’re doing an amazing job nurturing your little one. Phillips Pediatrics is here for you. Call us at (662) 371-1543 to schedule a consultation. Our team is dedicated to providing the care and support you and your baby deserve!

RSV typically peaks from October to January in our area. RSV is one of the many viruses that cause respiratory illness of the nose, throat, and lungs. RSV begins like a common cold and peaks on day 3-5 sometimes causing bronchiolitis, pneumonia, or dehydration. The illness typically lasts 5-7 days.

There is now a prescription, Beyfortus (nirsevimab) to help prevent serious lung disease caused by RSV. Beyfortus is not a typical or mRNA vaccine. It is a monoclonal antibody that gives your baby immediate and short-term passive immunity for 6 months, protecting your baby during his or her most vulnerable time. Beyfortus does not prevent RSV infection but can limit disease severity. Beyfortus is an immunization indicated for:

• Newborns and babies under 1 year during or entering into RSV season AND
• Children up to 24 months who remain at serious risk of RSV.

Beyfortus is an injection given in our office. Dosage varies by weight. Medicaid and VFC cover Beyfortus. Most private insurances are also covering the drug. If you have private insurance and would like to offer your baby protection, please call your insurance company to inquire about coverage.

Almost all children get RSV at least once by the time they are 2 years old. For most healthy children, RSV is like a common cold. Treatment is supportive with saline/suction of the nose, cool-mist humidifier, small frequent feeds, and age-appropriate fever reducers when needed.

As RSV infection peaks, it can lead to bronchiolitis–an infection that causes the small breathing tubes of the lungs (bronchioles) to swell. This blocks airflow through the lungs, making it hard to breathe. This can lead to labored breathing and wheezing. It occurs most often in infants because their airways are smaller and more easily blocked than in older children.

If your child shows signs of troubled breathing, such as fast, labored, breathing, pulling chest muscles in, flaring nostrils, wheezing, is unable to drink, or has high fever, your child needs a medical exam. From there, follow instructions by your pediatrician. Some children require breathing treatments or antibiotics for secondary infections, such as ear infections or pneumonia. Thankfully, only 3% of children with RSV require hospitalization.

RSV is spread by contact with an infected person’s mucus or saliva (respiratory droplets produced during coughing or wheezing). It often spreads through families and child care centers. Do not return to daycare/school until fever free for 48 hrs and past the peak of symptoms that occurs on day 3-5. If you have a sick child, call for an appointment at (662) 371-1543 or visit walk-in clinic.

• We currently provide the Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine for ages 6 mo to 11 years.
• The vaccine can be given at routine check-ups or during a scheduled vaccine visit.
• In 2023, the COVID vaccine was approved and recommended by the ACIP for use in children 6 mo of age and older.
• The COVID-19 vaccine was initially an Emergency Use Authorization for ages 6mo-5years and ages 5+.
• More information regarding COVID and the COVID vaccine can be found at the Mississippi State Department of Health

Schedule a vaccine visit today or ask about it during your child’s routine check-up. For more information, call our pediatric clinic in Oxford, MS at (662) 371-1543

Help us congratulate Dr. Catherine Phillips for being named Best Pediatrician by The Oxford Eagle.

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Meet Dr. Phillips and See Why She’s Considered Best of Oxford

Dr. Phillips brings over a decade of pediatric experience into the exam room, practicing the most up-to-date, evidence-based medicine of our decade. She combines her experience as a pediatrician and as a mom herself into account, treating each child like she would her own.

Meet Dr. Phillips