The Barbara Bush Children's Hospital

Pediatric Infectious Disease Care

The Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital is home to the state’s only dedicated pediatric infectious disease program. Our board-certified pediatric infectious disease physicians provide comprehensive care for young patients with illnesses caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi or parasites. We treat a wide range of conditions, including transplant complications, HIV and diseases of international refugees and travelers.

Travel Medicine

Are you planning to travel outside the U.S. with your children? Maine Medical Partners - Pediatric Specialty Care is here to guide you on country-specific immunizations and preventive medications for conditions such as malaria. Please schedule your appointment at least 6-8 weeks prior to departure and bring a copy of your child's immunization record. Some vaccines require multiple doses for effective protection during travel. Services include counseling on food and waterborne diseases, animals, insect control and other health concerns. Some vaccines require additional shots following travel. 

Contact Us

MMP Pediatric Specialty Care
887 Congress Street, Suite 300
Portland, ME 04102

Phone: 207-662-5522
Phone: 866-860-6277 (Toll Free)
Fax: 207-662-5526

Our physicians diagnose and treat the full range of infections affecting all major organ systems, including infections involving multiple body systems. Conditions we manage include:

  • Blood stream infection (Sepsis)
  • Bone and joint infections
  • Clostridium difficile colitis (‘C diff’)
  • Pneumonias
  • Encephalitis
  • Food-borne diseases such as salmonella
  • Hepatitis B and C
  • HIV/AIDS
  • Influenza, including the H1N1 virus
  • Lyme disease
  • Malaria and other travel-related diseases
  • Meningitis
  • MRSA
  • Mononucleosis
  • Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
  • Tuberculosis (TB)

Diagnosis

BBCH is affiliated with NorDx and part of the MaineHealth system. We perform a full range of diagnostic testing for timely, accurate diagnosis, enabling appropriate treatment to begin as soon as possible.

Treatment

We provide the most effective medications that are currently available and, careful monitoring, along with coordination of any appropriate home care and/or supportive services a child or family may need. Additional treatments include:

  • Antibiotic therapy
  • Antiviral therapy
  • Antifungal therapy
Travel medicine is not covered by some health insurance plans. The cost of the visit depends upon several factors, such as the complexity of the travel itinerary, as well as the number and types of immunizations required. If your insurance plan requires a referral for specialist visits, you must secure this before your appointment.