Let’s Talk About the Flu Virus and the Flu Vaccines Part 2

The more severe the pain or illness, the more severe will be the necessary changes. These may involve breaking bad habits, or acquiring some new and better ones.

Peter McWilliamsLife 101

kid-symptoms

Prevention of the Flu

  • Single best way to prevent the flu virus is to get a flu vaccine every year before the start of the flu season (for every person over the age of 6 months)
  • To help stop the spread of the flu, cough or sneeze into the crook of your arm or into a tissue
  • Wash hands frequently
  • If you live in a household with a sick person, a small baby (younger than 6 months of age) or an adult over the age of 65, it is more important for you to receive the flu vaccine
  • Disinfect all toys after a child has been sick. Replace toothbrushes after illness.

 

If you think your child has the Flu

  • Contact your pediatrician right away, especially if your child has asthma, diabetes or  is younger than 1 year of age
  • Within the first 48 hours of illness, flu symptoms can be minimized by getting a prescription for Tamiflu.
  • If child is severely ill (prolonged fevers > 104 degrees F, trouble breathing, excessive fatigue or severe dehydration)  go to an Emergency Room.
  • Control milder symptoms at home with lots of clear liquids (water, Pedialyte/Gatorade, broth), Tylenol and rest.
  • If your child has a fever > 100.5 degrees F, wait 24 hours after fever is gone before sending him/her back to school or daycare
  • Do not take a sick child to school, daycare, the mall or parties!
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