Getting through the flu season

This week I want to just follow-up on last week’s column regarding the H1N1 virus. I would like to delve further on the subject of protecting our kids when they are out of our hands, not only from H1N1 but also any other viruses.
Considering school and daycares are places where our little monkeys spend a lot of their time, I thought that I would share some information that I think is important.
As parents we spend a lot of our time teaching our kids to share. After all sharing means caring, right?
Well in schools and especially in daycares, our little guys share everything from toys to germs. So, when it comes to sending our kids to school don’t be afraid to ask about what precautions they are taking to ensure the health of the children. As a parent you have the right to know.
It’s important to teach your kids to wash their hands thoroughly and regularly. If your munchkin isn’t yet old enough to do so help them out by wiping their hands regularly. Keeping hand sanitizer in your purse, their diaper bag and in their school bag is also a good tip.
Viruses like the H1N1 seems to be spread by droplets, the same way as the normal seasonal flu. When we cough and sneeze we send germs out onto hands and other surfaces, then when other people come in contact with them, they get sick. Which is why it is so important to keep those hands clean.
It’s also important that when you need to cough or sneeze, do so in the crease of your elbow, since we don’t usually touch things with the crease of our elbow the likeliness of spreading any viruses is greatly reduced.
H1N1 is very similar to seasonal flu in terms of severity. What makes it so different is that it affects young people more easily and severely than the seasonal flu.
Many people are panicking with the idea that they could possibly have H1N1, but the most important thing to do is not panic! Many people who have become ill with the H1N1 rarely need hospitalization, many of the cases will resolve on their own.
If you notice any flu-like symptoms it’s important to keep your little one at home, because it will reduce the spread of the flu.
Before you head to the emergency room try some of these tips; keep a close eye on their breathing and the temperature of the fever. Make sure they rest and get plenty of fluids.
Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen can help with the aches and fevers, but never give aspirin to a child. A humidifier and Saline nose drops can help with the congestion and if your child is older than a year, a spoonful of honey is said to help calm a cough.
Also to keep in mind that even your own home can carry germs that can cause a virus, which is important to regularly sanitize your home. Especially if someone in your home has been sick, disinfect most hard surfaces with and anti-bacterial cleaner.
The three hot spots for germs are; your phone, remote control and computer. It’s suggested to clean these items about once a week, and more when someone is ill in your home.
There is a fine line between being OCD and oblivious when it comes to keeping yourself safe from viruses; find yourself a comfortable place between the two and most likely you will survive this flu season.
Bottom line; keep your distance from anyone who is sick, and stay clean!