Ask Dr. Mona

There’s been a lot of hype lately around parasite cleanses for children, and I want to start by saying: it makes complete sense that you’re asking about it. So many followers have reached out after seeing similar posts–and you’re absolutely right to pause and question instead of taking it at face value. It’s always worth questioning bold claims about children’s health–especially when they come with a sales pitch.

The truth is, routine parasite “cleanses” aren’t necessary. If a child does have a parasitic infection, it usually causes noticeable symptoms like persistent diarrhea, abdominal pain, weight loss, or itching around the anus (like with pinworms). In those cases, your child’s pediatrician can test and treat with safe, targeted medication.

The idea that our children are silently harboring “hidden parasites” that need to be purged is fear-based messaging–not science. These cleanses being pushed online are often unregulated, unclear in ingredients, and not backed by clinical evidence. And even when someone wears medical credentials or cites an old study, that doesn’t automatically make the claim valid–or the product safe.

So while it might sound convincing at first, there’s no need to routinely detox or cleanse your child. In fact, the more urgent or dramatic the claim, the more questions we should be asking. Always talk to a trusted pediatrician before trying drastic treatments or supplements.

I’m so glad you asked–and the short answer is yes, these outings are still safe for families, especially when you’re mindful about hygiene. Petting zoos, farms, and animal exhibits remain great places for kids to explore and connect with animals, even with the headlines about bird flu (H5N1).

While H5N1 has been found in some animals recently, the risk of transmission to humans–especially in settings like zoos or seasonal petting farms–remains extremely low. There’s no current recommendation to avoid these spaces.

The best protection? Hand hygiene. Be extra consistent about washing hands thoroughly with soap and water after touching animals, being near animal enclosures, or before eating.

So keep enjoying those spring outings–just with your usual hand-washing routines in place.

If any new recommendations come up, we’ll be sure to include them in a PedsDocTalk newsletter!

PDT Real Talk Series

This month’s question is,

May always seems to fly by–between school events, changing routines, and the sprint toward summer, it’s easy to miss the small stuff. So this month, we’re taking a pause to notice the glimmers.

What made you feel thankful lately? Maybe bedtime only took two stories and one song instead of the usual negotiations and stalling tactics. Maybe your child actually tried (licked? touched?) the broccoli on their plate. Maybe it was a meltdown that didn’t happen, a snack you didn’t have to share (please, share how??), or a surprise hug after a longggg day!

Big or small, these moments matter. Noticing them can shift our perspective–and we’d love to hear yours.

Please share your responses at the link below. Submit by May 23rd to be included in the giveaway. The winner will be notified individually via email, and responses will be featured in our May 25th Real Talk Newsletter.

Ask Dr. Mona

Ask Dr. Mona all your parenting questions!

Dr. Mona will answer these questions in a future Sunday Morning Q&A email. Chances are if you have a parenting concern or question, another parent can relate. So let's figure this out together!