Swine Flu guide for parents

September 24, 11:44 PMDallas Parenting ExaminerChristy Coffman

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All About the Vaccine

The vaccine is expected to be available in mid-October. Encouraging early clinical trials indicate that the shot offers effective protection from H1N1, and that one dose might be all it takes for adults and kids ages 9 to 18. Kids under 9 may require a booster.  Immunity kicks in 8 to 10 days after the shot.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, some groups are higher-risk than others, and should receive the vaccine first: health care and emergency workers, pregnant women,  everyone aged 6 months to 24 years, along with adults up to age 64 with medical problems that put them at risk for flu complications.  Although the regular flu shot won't protect you against H1N1, it's still a good idea to get one.

Signs & Symptoms

What makes this virus different from typical flu is that more serious complications, like pneumonia, might occur more often.  If you or your child is experiencing any of the following, call your doctor.
• fever (above 100.4 for babies 3 months and under and 101.1 for everyone else), plus 
• cough 
• sore throat 
• intense body aches
• headache 
• chills 
• fatigue
Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting, too.
Expectant women and moms of kids under 2 should be extra careful about taking action quickly.

When to Head to the ER

If your child demonstrates any of the following symptoms, it's time to seek emergency care:
• Fast or troubled breathing
• Bluish skin color
• Refusal to drink fluids
• Difficulty waking up and/or interacting
• Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held
• Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough
• Fever with a rash, especially one that does not blanch
In adults, the following symptoms deserve an ER trip as well:
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Pain or pressure in the chest
• Abdominal pain
• Sudden dizziness
• Confusion
• Severe or persistent vomiting

Easing Symptoms & Treatment

If you come down with the flu, swine or otherwise, there are a few things you can do to keep yourself comfortable.
• If you or your child feel at all flu-ish, skip work and school. Stay home until you feel 100% better.
• Try to stay in a separate area of the house to limit the risk of passing the virus.
• Rest up ? consider it your free pass to catch up on your DVR list.
• Push clear fluids, like water and soup.
• Ease body aches with acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen. If your child is under 2, check with your doctor before giving them medication.
• Using a humidifier can ease a stuffy nose. Saline drops followed by suctioning with a nasal syringe can bring additional relief to small children.
• There is treatment for swine flu. Antiviral medications like Tamiflu and Relenza can lessen your symptoms make you feel better faster and prevent swine flu-related complications if taken early on. Consult your doctor about a prescription, especially if you're pregnant or have a small child.

Prevention 101

At home:
• Wash your hands frequently, and make sure your kids do the same. • Take a moment to clean germ hot spots, like tables, doorknobs, desks and kitchen counters, with a disinfectant. Look for products that contain bleach or alcohol. • Keep your family's immune system strong with regular sleep, and lots of fruits and veggies. If you know anyone who's been sick, stay away for now.

Out and about:
• Try to keep up the frequent hand-washing, especially after trips to the playground. • If you don't have a sink handy, use an alcohol-based sanitizer gel or wipe. Look for ones that contain at least 60% alcohol. • Try to avoid crowded areas. Consider wearing a mask if you're in a public place where lots of germs are being transmitted, like doctor's offices or public transportation.• Wash your hands or use sanitizer after handling money. • Use your own pen when signing credit card slips.

Everywhere:
• Cover your mouth with your elbow when you cough or sneeze, and remind your kiddos to do the same. • Throw your used tissue in the trash instead of stuffing it in your pocket. • Try to avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth, which give germs a fast track to infection.
• Remind kids not to share cups, utensils and plates with friends.

Source: www.parenting.com