Infectious Diseases
Most of the time, a child’s immune system is able to rid the body of an infection. Sometimes, however, additional treatment is necessary. When things are more complicated or when an infection does not respond to initial treatment, the child may need to be seen by a pediatric infectious diseases specialist.
Our infectious diseases team at Phoenix Children’s delivers the highest level of care to help children recover and stay healthy.
An infection is caused when a virus, bacteria, fungus or parasite enters the body. Prions can also – but rarely do – cause infections. Infections can range from the common cold to more uncommon illnesses such as tuberculosis or malaria. These agents typically get into the body from the outside, often from other people, insects, animals or contaminated food, water or soil. Some infections also arise from bacteria that are already on or in the body.
Our Approach to Antibiotics
Our physicians are committed to using antibiotics wisely, meaning only when they are truly needed. When necessary, we use the right antibiotic for the right duration and with a dose specific to your child’s weight and other health conditions. This commitment is part of a larger antimicrobial stewardship effort at Phoenix Children’s to limit the emergence of resistant bacteria and avoid potential toxicity from unnecessary antibiotic therapy.
Inpatient Care
Our team provides 24/7 support for all inpatient programs at Phoenix Children’s, with physicians available every day to collaborate with pediatricians and subspecialists. We assist in managing infectious diseases, from initial diagnosis and treatment during hospitalization to providing guidance for outpatient (outside the hospital) care when needed.
We partner with you and your child’s care team to create a plan that meets their unique needs – a plan that helps your child heal quickly and fits with other treatments they may need.
We work closely with the infection prevention team to limit the risk of infection transmission within the hospital.
HIV Clinic
The Bill Holt Pediatric and Adolescent HIV Clinic is the only comprehensive pediatric and adolescent HIV clinic in Arizona. We provide state-of-the-art medical care for infants, children and teens who have been exposed to or diagnosed with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). From targeted treatments to psychological and social support, our team offers all-inclusive care for families navigating HIV.
Valley Fever Clinic
Phoenix Children’s is home to the country’s largest pediatric outpatient clinic, dedicated to diagnosing, treating and managing valley fever. This common infection is caused by a fungus native to the soil throughout the Sonoran Desert, including Phoenix.
This clinic is run by specialists from the pediatric infectious diseases division and a pediatric pulmonologist with extensive experience managing valley fever. Patients can be referred to this clinic by their pediatrician or referring physician by contacting the pediatric Pulmonology team.