School Health News

In the U.S. healthcare system, there is an increasing awareness of the influence of social, environmental, and community factors on health and well-being. Pediatrics has responded to this new health perspective by developing and adopting the concept of community pediatrics. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) first published its Statement on Community Pediatrics in 1999. The AAP defines community pediatrics as "a synthesis of clinical practice and public health principles directed toward providing health care to a given child and promoting the health of all children within the context of the family, school, and community." The AAP also calls for pediatricians to become involved in training residents and medical students in this model of practice.

An outbreak of rabies has been reported among raccoons in New York City's Central Park.

The new academic year has health professionals preparing for issues that typically present during this time, including vaccines and health education, as well as determining how to coordinate care between a patient’s primary health care provider and in-school care.