H1N1 Swine flu cases are declining in parts of the country. However, some authorities predict a resurgence of cases as a result of holiday socializing. Sick people should stay home rather than visit relatives or friends! But being ill and at home is no reason to forego a Thanksgiving celebration.
Typical symptoms of both the seasonal and the H1N1 Swine flu include: fever, malaise (feeling bad), weakness, cough, sore throat, and possibly vomiting and diarrhea.
If you have sick ones at home, make up a special holiday menu especially for them. Serve it with an age-appropriate holiday setting and some quiet entertainment. Here are some points to keep in mind.
- A person with general symptoms can eat whatever he or she wants. Serve small portions and save the second portions for another day.
- Warm fluids, such as tea with honey, comfort some people with a sore throat. Others prefer cold foods, like popsicles.
- Fever, vomiting, and diarrhea carry the risk of dehydration. Emphasize fluids. Do not offer fluids for two hours after someone vomits. Start out with amounts as small as one teaspoon at a time as frequently as every 15 minutes. Gradually increase the amount.
- If symptoms include nausea or diarrhea avoid spicy or high fat foods. Cold foods are less aromatic than hot foods and therefore tend to be less nauseating. The typical advice is the BRAT diet--bananas, rice, applesauce, tea, and toast. Start there and add some imagination.
In terms of the Thanksgiving meal, try these:
- Most should be able to tolerate lean turkey meat. Skip the typical gravy and stuffing-these usually have too much fat. Or you can make gravy using fat-free chicken broth and flour.
- A little cranberry sauce.
- In general, juices are high in fructose (sugar) and can make diarrhea worse. Consider adding water to juice. Avoid carbonated or sparkling beverages.
- Make white or sweet potatoes made without or with only a small amount milk or butter. Fat free broth can be used to mash the potatoes.
- Applesauce with cinnamon in a fancy cup.
- Dinner rolls may have too much fat; use regular bread or toast cut in an unusual shape.
- Avoid raw vegetables, such as a salad. Serve cooked vegetables flavored with broth or herbs rather than in cream sauce.
- For dessert, flavored gelatin mold with bananas will help replace fluids.
- If all else fails, use the standby—chicken soup or a Thanksgiving turkey soup.
When caring for someone with the flu, wash your hands frequently. Use a dishwasher for clean up if available.
This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute personal medical advice.
Related articles:
Interfaith Thanksgiving services
Tips for caring for a senior with the flu
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