Practice News

February 12, 2026
Regional Pediatric Education Hub We are proud to share that we have accepted the invitation from Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine to serve as a regional pediatric hub for medical student education in Palm Beach and Broward County. We are excited to let our families know that our first medical student is already training with us this month, working closely under our direct supervision. Medical students may participate in visits by observing, assisting with histories, and learning about pediatric care, always with your child’s safety, privacy, and comfort as our top priorities. We deeply appreciate our families’ support and collaboration as we help train the next generation of compassionate physicians. Learn more about Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine: https://burrell.edu/florida/ Interested in applying to medical school? https://burrell.edu/prospective-students/how-to-apply/ Best regards, Dr. Garofalo and the Pediatric Dream Care team. www.pediatricdreamcare.com

December 3, 2025
Here are several re asons, backed by evidence, why giving the HepB vaccine at birth (or very early) is beneficial and essential: 1. Preventing mother-to-child transmission • If a mother has hepatitis B (HBV), she can pass the virus to her baby during delivery. Even in cases where the mother tests negative, testing isn’t perfect, and infections could be missed. The birth dose helps catch those cases early. • Without early vaccination, infants born to infected mothers are at high risk of chronic infection, which later can lead to severe liver disease, cirrhosis, or liver cancer. 2. High risk of chronic disease when infection occurs early • Infants or young children who become infected with HBV are much more likely to develop chronic hepatitis B compared to adults. ACIP’s evidence shows ~90% of persons infected during infancy develop chronic infection, versus a much lower rate in adults. • Chronic HBV has severe long-term consequences (liver cancer, cirrhosis), hence prevention early in life is highly valuable.

December 3, 2025
Why Does My Baby Get the Hepatitis B Vaccine at Birth? What is Hepatitis B? • Hepatitis B is a virus that attacks the liver. • Babies who catch it at birth or in the first months of life usually don’t “clear” the infection. • About 9 out of 10 infants infected at birth develop chronic hepatitis B, which can lead to liver damage, cirrhosis, or even liver cancer later in life. How Can Babies Be Exposed? • A mother may carry the virus without knowing it. • Blood tests during pregnancy usually check for hepatitis B, but results can sometimes be missing, delayed, or even wrong. • That’s why experts recommend protecting every newborn right away. Why Give the Vaccine Within 24 Hours of Birth? Acts as a safety net – protection begins immediately, even before we know the mother’s results. Highly effective – when given in the first 24 hours, the vaccine significantly reduces the risk of lifelong infection. ๏ปฟ Prevents missed opportunities – once the birth dose is given, we know your baby has that first layer of protection.

December 3, 2025
The AAP recommends the flu vaccine for all kids 6 months+ and parents. ๐ ๐ Best time = September & October ๐ Takes 2 weeks to build protection ๐ Protects your child, your family & your community ๐ก๏ธ โจ We can give the flu vaccine to kids AND parents right here in our office! ๐
Call today to schedule your family’s flu shots — Dr. Garofalo & Pediatric Dream Care โค๏ธ๐

December 3, 2025
Every child develops differently, and every milestone is a moment to celebrate. Our Bright Futures parent handouts by age are available online. If you have questions, be sure to talk with your pediatrician at your child’s next well-child visit! #BabyMilestones #GrowingTogether #PediatricCare โค๏ธ

December 3, 2025
From using sunscreen to staying hydrated, these simple tips can make a big difference. ๐งด๐ง Ensure your children have fun in the sun without the risks. We hope this information is helpful for you and your family. #SummerSafety #HealthyKids #ParentingTips Kind regards, Dr. Garofalo and the Pediatric Dream Care team Click on the following link for a more detailed explanation:
December 3, 2025
Deciding on twin classroom placement? This article summarizes the American Academy of Pediatrics' evidence-based recommendations to help you choose the best fit for your twins’ social, emotional, and academic needs. To learn more about this topic, click the following link. To read in your preferred language, search the website above on the right and select your preferred language. We hope this information is helpful to you. Best regards. Dr. Garofalo and the Pediatric Dream Care team.

