Vaccines have been a hot topic in recent years, and we understand how overwhelming and confusing it can be for parents to sort through all the information, especially with changing recommendations and headlines.

At Anderson Hills Pediatrics (AHP), we believe knowledge is empowering. Our goal is to provide clear, compassionate guidance so you feel confident making informed decisions about your child’s health. We also want to help you understand why we make the vaccine recommendations we do and how these decisions protect your child and our community.

The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recently met to review data and update guidelines for several important vaccines, including COVID-19 and the MMRV vaccine (measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella).

Here’s what you need to know, and how these discussions impact the care we provide at AHP.

MMR vs. MMRV Vaccines

Both the MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, rubella) and the MMRV vaccine (measles, mumps, rubella, varicella) are safe and effective. The difference is that the MMRV combines chickenpox and measles, mumps, and rubella protection into a single shot.

For children under 4 years old, we have not historically given the combined MMRV vaccine. Instead, we recommend that your child receive the MMR vaccine and varicella vaccine separately during the 12 and 15 month well care visits, respectively. This follows ACIP’s most recent recommendations and helps reduce the very small risk of fever or febrile seizures that can occur after vaccination in younger children.

When children are 4 years or older, we often use the MMRV vaccine. At this age, there is no increased seizure risk, and it helps limit the number of injections during one visit.

It’s important to remember that while these risks have always been present, they are extremely rare, and the protection vaccines provide far outweighs the risks of serious illness from measles, mumps, rubella, or chickenpox. For reliable information, visit HealthyChildren.org by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) or the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Vaccine Education Center’s website.

COVID-19 Vaccines for Kids

The recent ACIP voted to change the COVID-19 vaccine recommendations from “recommended” to “shared clinical decision making” between the patient and physician. At AHP, we will continue to offer and recommend COVID-19 vaccines for our patients greater than 6 months because children, especially those at ages 6–23 months, are at significantly higher risk than older kids of being hospitalized for COVID.

This year, we will offer the Moderna vaccine, which is now the only approved COVID-19 vaccine for children starting at 6 months and older. The Pfizer vaccine will still be available elsewhere for children greater than 5 years old. If your child received the Pfizer vaccine in the past, they can receive a Moderna booster dose without issue.

Because new national guidance may affect insurance coverage, families will be asked to sign an ABN (Advance Beneficiary Notice) before vaccination. This form simply explains that you understand there may be a cost to you if your insurance does not fully cover the vaccine.

We are currently waiting for our 2025–2026 vaccine supply. If you’d like to be contacted as soon as doses are available, text “COVID Waitlist” to 513-232-8100, and our team will add your child or children to the list.

Our Commitment to Your Family

At Anderson Hills Pediatrics, we believe strongly in childhood vaccinations. Vaccines have been vital in keeping children healthy, preventing serious illness, and saving lives. Over the past thirty years in the U.S., routine childhood immunizations have prevented about 508 million illnesses, 32 million hospitalizations, and 1.13 million deaths among children born between 1994 and 2023.

Vaccines also don’t just protect the vaccinated child; they protect families, friends, and the community by reducing the spread of disease and keeping outbreaks rare. We believe the data show that the risks of vaccine-preventable illnesses are far greater than the risks associated with vaccines themselves.

If you have any questions about these vaccines or would like to discuss them further, please call or text our office at 513-232-8100. We are here to help guide and support you every step of the way.

Our flu vaccines will be available for patients starting on Monday, August 25, 2025. At Anderson Hills Pediatrics, we strongly recommend that all children aged six months and older get this year’s flu vaccine. We’re also continuing to offer flu vaccines to parents and loved ones, so the whole family can get their flu shot together.

Join us for this year’s flu clinics on the following dates:

• Saturdays at Anderson: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM (September 27, October 4, 11, 18, 25)
• Wednesdays at Anderson: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM (September 17 – December 17)
• Fridays at Amelia: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM (September 19-December 19)

Seamlessly Secure Your Flu Shot

Take advantage of our user-friendly web scheduling links for our Anderson and Amelia locations. Parents and family members should choose “New Patient” when scheduling appointments. Alternatively, you can request a flu shot during your child’s upcoming check-up without requiring a separate appointment. If you encounter any difficulty finding an appointment slot, please don’t hesitate to contact us at (513) 232-8100, and we’ll gladly explore additional options tailored to your family’s schedule.

Flu Clinic Additional Information

Back by popular demand, we aim to keep your family in the vehicle throughout the visit.

Where to go

We will have Flu Clinic signage in our parking lot to notify and guide you through the visit. We will have designated areas for check-in and vaccine administration. Weather permitting, this year’s clinics will be from the comfort of your vehicle (please no pets in your vehicle). Inclement or colder weather may necessitate bringing your child inside our facilities for their vaccine.

How to Dress

As you arrive, please ensure all children over the age of three (3) dress so that one a

rm is quickly freed of clothing for us to give the vaccine. The best option is a sleeveless or loose short-sleeved shirt. For children under the age of 3 or for those that do not have adequate muscle mass in the arm, the flu vaccine will be administered in your child’s thigh. In this case, we ask that shorts or diapers be worn so we may give the vaccine easily.

Observation

While rare, fainting or feeling lightheaded can occur after vaccination. This is more common among adolescents and young adults. For this reason, children over 11 will be observed for 15 min. If you choose to forgo the observation period, we will ask you to complete a waiver.

Thimerosol in Flu Vaccines

Our flu vaccines are provided in single-dose vials, which means they do not contain thimerosal, a preservative hi

storically used in some multi-dose vaccines. While thimerosal has been thoroughly studied and shown not to cause harm, we understand that parents may still have questions or concerns. Vaccine decisions can feel complex, and your pediatrician is here to support you. If you’re feeling uncertain about the flu vaccine, or any vaccine, please reach out. We’re always happy to have a thoughtful conversation about your child’s health and safety.

Flu 101

Looking to learn more about the flu in children? Check out our blog, Flu 101: What You Need to Know.

Thank you for trusting us with your child’s care!

As Memorial Day approaches, families across our community begin to gather for cookouts, travel, and outdoor fun to mark the start of the summer season. While this weekend offers an opportunity to spend quality time with loved ones, we also pause to reflect and honor the brave service members who have given their lives in defense of our country.

In that spirit, Anderson Hills Pediatrics encourages families to celebrate safely and remain mindful of seasonal health risks that can affect children during holiday weekends and throughout the summer months. Whether you are enjoying time at the pool, hosting a backyard barbecue, or heading out of town, these pediatric safety tips can help protect your child’s health and well-being.

Sun Protection for Children

Unprotected sun exposure can lead to painful sunburns and increase a child’s lifetime risk of skin damage and skin cancer.

To keep children safe in the sun:

• Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to all exposed skin 15–30 minutes before outdoor activity. Reapply every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating.
• Dress children in lightweight long-sleeved clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses with UV protection.
• Limit direct sun exposure during peak UV hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Water Safety for Pools, Lakes, and Beaches

Drowning is a leading cause of preventable death among children, especially during summer months. Vigilance around water is critical.

Key water safety practices:

• Constantly supervise children near any body of water. Designate a responsible adult “Water Watcher.”
• Use U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets for children when boating or swimming in natural bodies of water.
• Enroll children in swim lessons to help them develop age-appropriate water skills and confidence.
• Ensure pool fences are secure and self-latching to prevent unsupervised access.

Heat and Hydration

Young children are especially susceptible to dehydration and heat-related illnesses. Their bodies do not cool down as efficiently as adults’, making hydration and rest essential.

Tips for preventing heat illness:

• Encourage regular water intake throughout the day, especially during outdoor play.
• Offer snacks high in water content, such as fruit.
• Dress children in breathable, light-colored clothing.
• Plan active play for cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon.

Insect and Tick Protection

With increased time outdoors, children may encounter mosquitoes and ticks that can transmit illness.

Protective measures include:

• Apply insect repellents with DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus (for children over 3 years old), as recommended by your pediatrician.
• Perform daily tick checks, focusing on the scalp, behind ears, and under arms.
• Dress children in long pants and sleeves in wooded or grassy areas.
• Shower after outdoor play to help wash off unattached ticks and pollen.

Fire, Grill, and Burn Safety

Grilling and outdoor fires are common during holiday weekends but can present serious hazards for children if not closely supervised.

Child-safe grilling and fire practices:

• Keep children at least three feet away from hot grills, fire pits, and cooking areas.
• Never leave grills or flames unattended.
• Store matches and lighters out of children’s reach.
• Avoid sparklers, which can cause serious burns—opt for safer alternatives like glow sticks or LED toys.

Pediatric Care Available Every Day — Including Memorial Day

Anderson Hills Pediatrics is committed to being there for your family when you need us most. We are open 365 days a year, including all major holidays such as Memorial Day. If your child is experiencing illness symptoms, call our office to speak with our clinical team on call to determine if an appointment is right for you.

Wishing your family a safe, healthy, and meaningful Memorial Day weekend. Thank you for continuing to trust Anderson Hills Pediatrics with your child’s health and well-being. Continue reading “Summer Safety Tips Every Parent Should Know” →

At Anderson Hills Pediatrics, everything we do is grounded in our mission: to deliver innovative, exceptional care to the families we serve. That means not only providing outstanding medical treatment but also continually improving the way you access and experience that care.

Many of you shared thoughtful feedback about our previous check-in system, Phreesia. We took that to heart. After listening closely and evaluating how we could better support our families, we’ve made a meaningful change. We’ve transitioned to your Athena for patient check-in.

A More Thoughtful Experience

If you schedule your child’s appointment in advance, you’ll now receive reminders via email and text that include a link to check in before your visit. These tools are part of our effort to improve access and give you the flexibility to complete check-in tasks on your own time.

If you don’t receive a link, you can always check in through your Athena patient portal or the AthenaPatient app which offers a secure and convenient option that’s available anytime.

We’ve worked in collaboration with Athena to tailor the check-in process to reflect the unique needs of each visit. You’ll only see what’s necessary for your child’s appointment, and some forms, like consents, only need to be completed once or annually, saving you time and reducing repetition.

Why Check-In Matters

While the process may feel routine, it plays a critical role in the care we deliver. Confirming your information, such as demographics, insurance coverage, and balances, helps us ensure:

• You have uninterrupted access to services by keeping your insurance and contact details current.
• Our team is fully prepared to provide personalized care and service the moment you walk in.
• The details you provide are immediately and accurately integrated into your child’s chart, keeping us aligned for safe, informed decisions.
• When check-in is completed ahead of time, it supports a smoother, more efficient experience for everyone, from our front desk to your pediatrician in the exam room.

We’re Here for You

Checking in digitally is more efficient and accurate, however, we understand that not everyone prefers this method. If you’re more comfortable with paper forms, just let us know. Our team will gladly provide a printed packet upon arrival.

And if you forget to check in before your visit? No worries. We can send the link to your phone when you arrive, ensuring the process is still simple and smooth.

No matter your preference, our priority is to make the check-in experience supportive, respectful, and accessible to all.

Your Feedback Drives Our Progress

We’re committed to ongoing collaboration with Athena to improve the system further. Your insight helps guide those efforts. If something doesn’t feel easy or helpful, please let us know. Your feedback continues to shape the way we serve you.

Thank You

Thank you for your patience, your trust, and your partnership as we implement this new check-in system. We believe this change reflects our continued commitment to innovative, exceptional care, delivered with compassion and grounded in access, service, and a better experience for every family.

We’re honored to care for your children and grateful to grow alongside your family.

At Anderson Hills Pediatrics, we believe that safety and preparedness go hand in hand, especially when it comes to caring for children. That’s why we’re proud to offer a Babysitter CPR & First Aid American Heart Association Certification course designed specifically for the responsible teens and tweens in our community.

Whether your child regularly babysits for neighbors or helps care for younger siblings, knowing how to respond in an emergency is a vital skill. This course will equip them with the knowledge and confidence to handle unexpected situations with care and composure.

What Participants Will Learn

In this blended learning program, students will gain hands-on experience in a supportive and engaging environment. The course includes:

• Online training completed at home (approximately 2 hours, on your schedule)
• In-person session at our Amelia location with certified instructors
• First aid and CPR skills focused on infants and young children
• Babysitting safety tips and techniques to become a reliable caregiver

Upon completion, each participant will receive an official American Heart Association certification card and certificate of completion.

Event Details

• Date options: May 24 or May 31 (choose the date that works best for you)
• Time: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
• Location: Anderson Hills Pediatrics – Amelia Office
  1126 West Ohio Pike, Amelia, OH 45102

Cost

• $21.00 for the online training and test
• Free in-person skills session for AHP patients (a $60 value) or an additional $25.00 for non-AHP patients

This course is open to AHP patients ages 14 to 18, and we encourage each participant to register a friend to join them!

We’re here to make sure every sitter is equipped with the skills they need to keep children safe and respond with confidence in any situation.

Struggling with Your Child’s ADHD?

Join Our Parent Group Starting May 7th

Join us this summer for a compassionate and empowering new program created especially for parents and guardians of children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Led by Vanessa Sinclair, LPCC-S, this program offers up-to-date information and practical strategies to help you navigate the everyday challenges that often come with raising a child with ADHD.

We understand that parenting a child with ADHD can be both rewarding and incredibly challenging. This program is designed for parents of children ages 6 to 12 who have been diagnosed with ADHD and are looking for real-world tools to help their child thrive—at home, at school, and in the community.

Together, we’ll explore ways to support your child’s growth while recognizing that understanding expectations and consistently following through can be two very different things for children with ADHD. Our goal is to give you the knowledge, strategies, and encouragement you need to feel more confident and connected in your parenting journey.

Program Details:

• Dates: Every Wednesday for 8 weeks (May 7 – June 24, 2025)
• Time: 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM
• Location: Anderson Hills Pediatrics, 7400 Jager Ct., Cincinnati, OH 45230

Topics Covered:

• Understanding ADHD and its impact on a child’s day-to- day functioning
• Principles to guide the effective management of ADHD
• Using positive attention to promote desired behaviors
• Promoting child compliance to instructions and rules
• Prompting and promoting desired behaviors
• Structuring Homework for success
• Working with a child’s teacher to address problems in the classroom
• The appropriate role of punishment in managing ADHD-related behaviors
• Managing child behavior in public places
• Maintaining positive change over time

What’s Involved in Attending?

This program consists of eight 90-minute group sessions which are held on the same day each week at our Anderson location. We have limited space, and can accept the caregivers of 12 patients.

Will my Insurance Cover It?

Most health plans cover multi-family group therapy services, but families may still be responsible for any deductible or co-payments. After you sign up, a member of our billing team will contact you with information about your insurance coverage. If you would like to contact your insurance company in advance, the CPT codes that will be billed are 96202 and 96203.

This program was developed by and is in partnership with Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center. 

At Anderson Hills Pediatrics, we know it can be unsettling to see headlines about rising measles cases here in Ohio. As pediatricians, we want to cut through the fear, provide clear facts, and help you feel confident in protecting your child.

Here’s what you really need to know about measles, how to recognize it, and why vaccination remains your best defense.

What Is Measles?

Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or even breathes. It can live in the air for up to two hours, making it one of the most contagious illnesses in the world.

• Typical measles symptoms in children include:
• High fever
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red, watery eyes
• A red rash that usually starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body

While many children recover fully, measles can cause serious complications like pneumonia, brain swelling (encephalitis), and in rare cases, death. This is why early vaccination and staying alert to symptoms is so important—especially during outbreaks (three or more cases) like the one Ohio is currently facing.

Why the Measles Vaccine Matters

The MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, and rubella) is a safe and effective vaccine for children that protects against all three illnesses. The CDC recommends two doses:

• First dose: 12–15 months of age
• Second dose: 4–6 years of age

The MMR vaccine is about 97% effective at preventing measles after both doses. If your child has received both, their risk of catching measles—even during the 2025 Ohio measles outbreak —is extremely low.

Concerned about vaccine side effects? The MMR vaccine has been used safely for more than 50 years. Most children have no side effects, or experience only mild ones like a low-grade fever or soreness at the injection site.

If you’re looking for measles vaccine safety information, we recommend the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Vaccine Education Center or Healthy Children, trusted, evidence-based resources.

If Your Child Is Not Yet Vaccinated

If your child is behind on vaccines or hasn’t started the MMR series, it’s not too late. Schedule an appointment with us—we’ll review your child’s vaccination records and get them caught up safely.

If you’re planning international travel, we can also advise on early MMR vaccination when appropriate. While early vaccination is generally not recommended for children under 12–15 months, we are happy to discuss appropriate scheduling for children in the 4–6-year age range. Please contact our office for personalized guidance.

We’re Here for You

In a time of uncertainty, we want you to feel confident that you’re doing the right thing for your child. Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent measles, and we’re here to walk with you every step of the way—with care, clarity, and commitment to your child’s health.

If you have questions or would like to review your child’s vaccination status, please contact us at Anderson Hills Pediatrics. We’re here to help.
— Your team at Anderson Hills Pediatrics

Happy holidays and thank you for entrusting Anderson Hills Pediatrics with your family’s healthcare needs throughout the year. It has been our privilege to serve you, and we look forward to providing the best care to you and your family in the coming year.

Holiday Hours:

Anderson Location:

December 24th – 25th & December 31st – January 1st: We will be closed except for a limited number of appointments for urgent needs. Please call our office between 8:30 AM and 9:30 AM to schedule.

Amelia Location:

December 24th – January 1st: Closed

We understand that medical concerns can arise, even during the holiday season. Please be assured that our dedicated physicians and clinical team will be available by phone at 513-232-8100 for urgent needs 24/7, even when our office is closed for the holidays.

Once again, thank you for choosing Anderson Hills Pediatrics as your healthcare partner. We wish you and your loved ones a joyful and heartwarming holiday season!

Sincerely,

Anderson Hills Pediatrics

‘Tis the season to stay healthy—stop the flu before it stops you!

We’ve started seeing flu cases in our office, but it’s not too late to protect your family. Getting your flu vaccine is the best way to stay healthy this season, and we’re here to help! To make it even easier, we’ve added new flu clinic dates at both of our locations.

Anderson Flu Clinics

• 12/20: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
• 12/27: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
• 1/3: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

• 12/20: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
• 1/3: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Seamlessly Secure Your Flu Shot

Take advantage of our user-friendly web scheduling links for our Anderson and Amelia locations. Parents and family members should choose “New Patient” when scheduling appointments. Alternatively, you can request a flu shot during your child’s upcoming check-up without requiring a separate appointment. If you encounter any difficulty finding an appointment slot, please don’t hesitate to contact us at (513) 232-8100, and we’ll gladly explore additional options tailored to your family’s schedule.

How to Dress

As you arrive, please ensure all children over the age of three (3) dress so that one arm is quickly freed of clothing for us to give the vaccine. The best option is a sleeveless or loose short-sleeved shirt. For children under the age of 3 or for those that do not have adequate muscle mass in the arm, the flu vaccine will be administered in your child’s thigh. In this case, we ask that shorts or diapers be worn so we may give the vaccine easily.

Observation

While rare, fainting or feeling lightheaded can occur after vaccination. This is more common among adolescents and young adults. For this reason, children over 11 will be observed for 15 min. If you choose to forgo the observation period, we will ask you to complete a waiver.

Flu 101

Looking to learn more about the flu in children? Check out our blog, Flu 101: What You Need to Know.

Thank you for trusting us with your child’s care!

Snow is here! We love that this time of year often leads to building snowmen, sledding, and other fun-filled outdoor activities.

Since inclement weather may occur soon, we wanted to share information on how our offices handle these conditions.

• Communication: We will contact you if we need to cancel your visit due to weather. You may receive notice from us by phone call, text, or email, depending upon the time of day and the number of appointments needing to be canceled. Rest assured, a team member will communicate with you to find an alternative time to visit your pediatrician safely. It is safe to assume we are open if you do not hear from us.
• Social Media Updates:  We will post on our social media sites as soon as we decide to cancel appointments. Please follow our Facebook or Instagram accounts for this and additional health-related information.
• Telemedicine Alternatives: If you are scheduled for select appointments such as behavioral health visits, medication follow-ups, and simple ill appointments, we may offer a virtual visit as an alternative form of care from the comfort of your home. Unfortunately, visits that require a physical exam or testing are not always appropriate for telemedicine.
• Patient Cancellations: Should you have issues traveling to your visit due to inclement weather, we offer the option to cancel at no charge.

Excellent Links for Winter Tips and Fun:

• Playing Outside in Winter: Tips to Keep Kids Warm & Safe
• Winter Car Seat Safety Tips: Keeping Kids Safe & Warm
• Avoiding Dry Winter Skin in Babies and Toddlers