Greetings from Dr. Tan!

This month’s issue of Contemporary Pediatrics is devoted to coverage of various sessions presented at the virtual American Academy of Pediatrics 2020 National Conference & Exhibition. The following are several articles that provide guidance on common issues that are encountered in clinical practice and are perfect for the upcoming winter season, truly must reads. These include:

Community-acquired pneumonia, how to diagnose and treat, by Dr Mark Sawyer. This becomes more important this year as we move into cold and influenza season, especially with the co-circulation of COVID-19. All these viruses can cause respiratory symptoms, so being able to have ways to distinguish between viral and bacterial pneumonia will be very helpful.

New bugs, new drugs, which covers the latest news on the rapidly changing antimicrobial susceptibility of commonly seen pathogens, by Dr Rana El Feghaly and Dr Jennifer L Goldman.

Psychopharmacology for primary care providers – what pediatricians need to know about diagnosing and screening for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, depression and anxiety, by Dr Rebecca Baum. All these conditions have been made worse by the isolation protocols and virtual learning setting that children have experienced due to COVID-19. Children are also experiencing a significant amount of stress, anxiety, and depression as it relates to COVID-19 and an increasing number of parents are turning to their pediatrician with questions regarding these conditions.

As we move into the winter season­ please stay safe and well. And as always­ I welcome your suggestions­ comments­ and questions‑

With warmest regards,

Tina

Tina Q Tan., FAAP, FIDSA, FPIDS

Editor-in-Chief