Halloween will look a bit different for many families this year as parents and kids navigate how to have a fun, safe Halloween amid the ongoing pandemic. As a pediatrician at Dignity Health Medical Group - Dominican, Komal Afzal, DO, understands there is a healthy balance we must achieve to ensure children’s safety while fostering their continued development.

With Halloween around the corner, she urges parents to continue the conversation around safety and encourages open dialogue about how the holidays will look different while finding ways to still make them special. Usual traditions such as costume parties and door-to-door trick or treating may not be happening, but there are certainly still many ways to celebrate Halloween this year.

The flu virus infects millions of people and hospitalizes hundreds of thousands each year. And with the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s even more important to protect against the flu. It is possible to contract both COVID-19 and the flu simultaneously, and recent studies show that up to 20% of people who test positive for coronavirus, also have the flu or other respiratory illnesses. The flu shot decreases the likelihood of getting these viruses together.

Sudershan Singh, MD, an infectious disease specialist at Woodland Clinic shared some insightful tips on the symptoms you should know, and preventative measures you can take to protect you and your family this flu season.

Health officials in California are concerned about this year’s flu season as vaccinations among children up to 18 years of age have plummeted by more than 40% since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, now more than ever, parents should consult their child’s pediatrician to ensure their child is vaccinated and protected.

Danton Kono, MD, a pediatrician with Dignity Health Mercy Medical Group in Citrus Heights, shared some valuable information on vaccines and why a flu shot is especially important this year.

Flu season is upon us and its important to understand the symptoms and risks associated with this highly contagious, seasonal virus. There are many misconceptions about the flu and it can be difficult to decipher what’s real and what’s not. False information can get in the way of necessary medical attention so we’re debunking a few common myths to ensure you’re getting the information you need this flu season.

Jennifer Steen, MD, an OB/GYN with Dignity Health Medical Group, Ventura Region has embraced virtual visits in her practice as a tool to help patients feel more at ease. As an OB/GYN, virtual visits have allowed Dr. Steen to connect with her patients. Across the board, her obstetrics and gynecology patients enjoy virtual visits, for various reasons.