A Letter from the Editor
Welcome to the first issue of our seasonal newsletter! As the seasons change, one thing remains constant here at Longwood Pediatrics: our unwavering commitment to patient care, every day of the year.
For over 75 years, Longwood Pediatrics has provided care to countless families in the Greater Boston Area, guiding parents as they raise their children to be the happiest, healthiest versions of themselves. At the heart of that is a tight-knit team of healthcare providers and administrators, all working together to ensure every child has their needs met, and every family who walks through our practice doors will leave with more hope for their little one’s health than when they entered.
This team effort is evident in every corner of our office, and it inspired me to create this newsletter as a means of staying connected with our ever-growing community of Longwood families and friends. It is a privilege to share this newsletter
with you and highlight the achievements of our care providers, staff, and community partners. I hope you enjoy reading it!
Sincerely,
Angelee Gonzalez
Community Outreach Coordinator
Seasonal Reminders
Schedule your child’s next well visit!
Staying Healthy in the Spring
It’s that time of year! The sun is shining longer, the trees and flowers are beginning to bloom…and your child may be dealing with some serious seasonal allergies! After the first year of life, children and adults can experience runny nose, sneezing, and itchy eyes when pollen counts are high.
Our pediatricians recommend limiting pollen exposure for those who are sensitive. Wearing sunglasses or a hat when outdoors can help limit the amount of pollen on the face and head. Washing off any lingering pollen from the face, hands and body is essential: Washing hands after coming indoors, and showering or bathing at the end of the day, including washing hair, gives kids a break from pollen. Keeping windows closed when sleeping also helps reduce pollen exposure. To manage symptoms of seasonal allergies, over-the-counter antihistamines, eye drops, and nasal sprays (like Flonase) are safe options.
If you are concerned about your child’s symptoms, please call our office or make an appointment to be seen. We are happy to help you manage this one downside of spring!
Practice News
Welcome, Emily!
Emily’s Background:
"I completed my BSN at the University of Michigan (Go Blue!) and my MSN at Vanderbilt University. I grew up in Michigan, lived in Colorado for about 5 years, and I am excited to now be living on the East Coast. I’ve worked in pediatrics for the past 8 years, and I’m thrilled to continue my career as a Nurse Practitioner here at Longwood Pediatrics!"
Emily’s Passion for Pediatric Care
“My favorite thing about working in pediatrics is watching children grow from tiny infants into amazing young adults. Children truly are resilient, and working with children everyday never fails to put a smile on my face. I am passionate about pediatric preventative care to help patients stay healthy and prevent hospitalizations.”
Q: What are you looking forward to in your new role?
“I’m eager to join the dedicated and compassionate team here at Longwood Pediatrics. They are committed to providing the best care for every patient. I’m also thrilled to meet the many children and families that come here!”
Dr. Vernacchio’s Research on Antibiotics for Kids
Antibiotic use in pediatric care is a common concern for parents. When should antibiotics be prescribed for kids? How much is too much?
Dr. Louis Vernacchio has answers! His research on short-course antibiotic treatment for pediatric patients was published in the February 2024 issue of Pediatrics, a medical journal by the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Dr. Vernacchio’s video about our antibiotics approach is now live on our socials! His article for Pediatrics is also available online (may require purchase for individuals outside of institutions with access).
Community Events
Fun in Fenway
In partnership with the Fenway Community Center, Dr. Robert Michaels and Dr. Cole Shapiro will lead a very special event: Pediatrician’s Corner! Join us for an open conversation on parenting topics, ask questions, and meet local parents in a fun, supportive environment while little ones play!
Learn more about the upcoming Pediatrician’s Corner event and other free, family-friendly events at the Fenway Community Center.
World Autism Awareness Day
In honor of World Autism Awareness Day, we would like to give a special shoutout to one of Longwood Pediatrics’ community friends: Lenard Zohn, autism dad and founder of Autism Eats.
Lenard visited Longwood Pediatrics in November 2023 and led our Fall Community Conversation about childhood autism.
RSVP for this autism-friendly dinner and other upcoming events hosted by Autism Eats, all across the United States!
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