5-5-09

Swine Flu – Children

A new influenza virus is causing illness in many parts of the United States, but some precautions can help prevent the disease from spreading, especially to children.

H1N1 influenza, initially called Swine flu, has recently been confirmed around the U.S.  The virus spreads from person to person and can infect anyone.  It may become more serious in frail populations such as young children and the elderly.  Dr. Michelle Miner, assistant professor of pediatrics at SIU School of Medicine in Springfield, says symptoms are similar to regular flu.

SOUND BITE: “Fever and body aches are probably the two biggies.  Usually people will have respiratory symptoms like nasal congestion, cough, sore throat, headache, a lot of fatigue.  One difference we are seeing with the swine flu as compared to traditional influenza is that we are seeing a bit more gastro intestinal symptoms.  So we’re seeing more vomiting and diarrhea than we usually see with regular influenza.”

H1N1 flu is very contagious so anyone with the flu should stay home from school and work.  Dr. Miner urges parents not to panic, but to use common sense and do these simple things.

SOUND BITE:  “. . . educate your children when they cough or sneeze to cough or sneeze into a tissue.  If they don’t have one available, cough into their elbow, not in to their hand.  As soon as you cough or sneeze, throw the tissue away and wash your hands real good.  Keep some alcohol, you know the gel-based cleaners with you so if you don’t have access to soap and water, you can do that and sanitize your hands.”

Dr. Miner also recommends frequent hand washing to help prevent the spread of any influenza.  If someone has symptoms they should call their family physician or pediatrician.  Medication can ease the illness if started within 48 hours of the beginning of symptoms.

This is Ruth Slottag at SIU School of Medicine in Springfield.