How to Protect Your Child from Swine Flu

With the recent outbreak of the swine flu in the United States, parents might be wondering what they can do to protect their children. A handful of swine flu cases were found in a high school in New York, illustrating that teens are not immune to this new concern.

In short, if your child has flu-like symptoms, contact your pediatrician and keep your teen home from school. The signs of this flu are like traditional influenza with fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. It is reported that people with swine flu can also have vomiting and diarrhea. There are anti-viral medications that are thought to be effective for this new virus, so seeking help early might make a difference in preventing the illness from getting worse.

Good handwashing is always important in preventing disease. Encourage your teen to use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if handwashing isn't possible. Give teens tissues so that they can cover their mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing. The virus is transmitted between people through respiratory droplets - the small drops that are sprayed out during a sneeze or cough. A tissue helps to prevent these droplets from spreading, but make sure that the tissue is thrown away! These tips can help prevent the spread of the disease and protect your child from catching it.

Another important way to keep your children safe is by having them avoid those who are sick. If your child's school closes in an attempt to prevent further spread of the virus, they are doing it because it's in your teen's best interest. It may extend the school year, but your child's health is more important than a longer summer. No one really knows what this virus is capable of, so taking every precaution to protect your teen is important.

For more information visit the CDC and their information on swine flu.