RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- A recent rise in child hospitalizations in the Richmond region is expected to get worse, but doctors say not to panic. 8News spoke to Dr. Clifton Lee with the Children's Hospital of Richmond at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) to get a better idea of what the community -- and region -- should expect. "We're going to end up seeing a lot more children getting sick and ending up in the hospitals," said Dr. Lee. While pediatric pneumonia cases spike by 30% in central Virginia, Dr. Lee urges people to not be too scared by the numbers. "It is not unusual to see increases in cases during this time of the year," Dr. Lee said. "So, it's not a cause for panic by any means." Cases of respiratory illnesses, particularly "walking pneumonia," are climbing. With winter right around the corner and temperatures dropping fast, it's normal to be spending more time indoors and in close quarters with others. "While it's not mandatory, you should consider getting the COVID vaccine, especially if your child is chronically ill, has complicated medical issues, or they're immunosuppressed," said Dr. Lee. "Get the flu vaccine, this is the time to get the flu vaccine. Children as young as six months are eligible for the flu vaccine." Dr. Lee encourages parents to look out for signs like a fever and coughing. However, if symptoms escalate to a high fever — above 100.4˚F for infants and 102.2˚F for older children — vomiting, trouble breathing or wheezing, more urgent action should be taken. "Those children should be seen or are urgently in the emergency department," Dr. Lee said. Once taken to a hospital, patients receive supportive care like hydration. Virginia hospitals have recently faced a nationwide IV fluid shortage following hurricane Helene, so oral hydration is the preferred hydration treatment. Patients may also receive oxygen and nasal suctioning. While these treatment options are available, Dr. Lee reiterates that the goal is to keep kids out of the hospital in the first place. "Consider wearing a mask, especially for those children who are prone to getting respiratory illnesses, those who have weakened immune system," Dr. Lee suggested. "I would consider wearing a mask, although it is not mandatory anymore to wear a mask. You should always weigh the pros and cons of wearing [a mask] and make sure that you do as much as you can to protect your child as well as yourself." Dr. Lee told 8News that this rise in respiratory illnesses among children is expected to get worse as central Virginia heads deeper into flu season. That's why getting flu and COVID-19 vaccines now is critical. The Virginia Department of Health hosts various vaccination clinics across central Virginia. More information about these clinics can be found on the department's website.