A Guide for Parents, Teachers and Caregivers
Pervasive Developmental Disorders
These disorders affect a child's response to senses, the ability to communicate, and may affect intellectual skills.
Symptoms
Children with this pervasive developmental disorder have a substantial delay in communication and social interaction, as well as a restricted range of interest and activities. They are unable to develop relationships or become close to anyone, including their parents. When they are infants they may either resist affection or cling constantly to someone. As they get older they like to play alone and if they are hurt may not seek comfort. They have difficulty communicating because they don't develop language skills, using words incorrectly or creating a language all their own. Autistic children may develop repetitive body movements such as rocking back and forth or twirling. They may become very attached to a particular object or idea, i.e., they require order in their surroundings and set strict routines of behavior for themselves.
Treatment
The cause of autism remains unknown, although current theories indicate a problem with the function or structure of the central nervous system. What we do know, however, is that parents do not cause autism. Children with autism need comprehensive evaluation and specialized behavioral and educational programs. Some children with autism may also benefit from treatment with medication. Child and adolescent psychiatrists are trained to diagnose autism, and to help families design and implement an appropriate treatment plan. They can also help families cope with the stress.
UPDATED: 3-11-2004
Editorial Board | Legal Disclaimer | Privacy & Security | Contact Us
©2000-2006 Office of Institutional Advancement, UT-Houston
Special Instructions for Children Being Vaccinated Against Flu for the First Time:
Children 6 months up to 9 years of age getting a flu vaccine for the first time will need two doses of vaccine the first year they are vaccinated. If possible, the first dose should be given in September or as soon as vaccine becomes available. The second dose should be given 28 or more days after the first dose. The first dose "primes" the immune system; the second dose provides immune protection. Children who only get one dose but who need two doses can have reduced or no protection from a single dose of flu vaccine. Two doses are necessary to protect these children. If your child needs two doses, begin the process early, so that children are protected before influenza starts circulating in your community. Be sure to follow up to get your child a second dose if they need one. It usually takes about two weeks after the second dose for protection to begin.
Because flu viruses change every year, the vaccine is updated annually. So even if you or your children got a flu vaccine last year, you both still need to get a flu vaccine this season to remain protected. If October and November slip by, and you haven’t gotten your children or yourself vaccinated, get vaccinated in December or later.
