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As a parent, you are your child's greatest advocate. Knowing when and how to handle a child's respiratory illness is critical. Fortunately, most cases can be managed from the comfort of one’s home without needing prescription medications. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, they may require medical attention. Dr. Sheppard's team is available to provide expert advice on evaluating your options and supporting your little ones at home during their recovery journey.



- Offer plenty of fluids to keep up hydration
- Elevate the child's head when sleeping
- Put a humidifier on in your child's bedroom
- Get plenty of rest



You should contact your primary care provider if your little one has had a fever that won't let up for 72 hours, or if there was a day of relief followed by another onset of temperature, alongside irritability or lethargy. If your child has an earache that is persisting past 48 hours or is not eating or drinking, those are also signs that indicate it might be time to seek medical attention.



Further to this, with Health Connect Ontario you can get helpful advice from experienced nurses. Use their symptom checker for quick insight into your condition or have an in-depth conversation by chatting live with one of them - any time day or night. For more personalized help, give 811 a call and let their 24/7 staff connect you with someone who can provide immediate assistance.

For patients in Orillia and surrounding communities, there are two After Hours Clinics available. The Couchiching Family Health Organization After Hours Medical Clinic and the Orillia Family Health Organization After Hours Medical Clinic, which Dr. Sheppard resides under. 



To check which clinic your Family Physician is a part of, please visit www.cfht.ca/after-hours to find your Physician's name and then use that allocated After Hours Clinic.



Don't have a physician? Health Care Connect can help you find the perfect fit for your medical needs. In the meantime, if it's an emergency please head to the nearest hospital for immediate assistance.