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Prevent Swine Influenza Disease in Kids

Recognize H1N1 Swine Flu Symptoms to Avoid Contagious Infection

Oct 11, 2009 Victoria Nicks

Swine flu virus symptoms mimic simple colds, but are more dangerous. Prevent serious illness by avoiding contagious infection from those with H1N1 swine flu symptoms.

Like any other contagious infection, swine flu, also known as the H1N1 virus, is passed most readily in areas with a densely packed population. A classroom, which may have little fresh air, and is filled with captive children, is a breeding ground for colds and flu throughout the school year. Swine influenza disease can also be easily passed between children in the school environment. Swine flu virus symptoms can appear identical to common flu and cold symptoms, but are much more dangerous.

The Best Swine Flu Medicine is Prevention

The best swine flu medicine is preventing the infection in the first place. It is impractical to expect parents to keep their healthy children home from school in order to prevent infection, but there are simple alternatives that can help kids avoid picking up the swine flu from their friends.

Use antibacterial wipes when hand-washing is not available
Wash hands often to reduce the amount of germs being transferred
Avoid touching the face to prevent germs from getting into the body through the eyes, nose, and mouth
Avoid close bodily contact with sick children. If cases of the flu are going around, kids should avoid close physical contact with everyone as much as possible

Cold and Flu Symptoms

Cold and flu symptoms appear much the same as the H1N1 virus, so it is important to be extremely vigilant if a child appears to be suffering from a cold or the flu. Common cold and flu symptoms may include any or all of the following: fever, headache, bodyache, chills and fatigue. In addition, a post-nasal drip, or sinus congestion may contribute to a cough and sore throat, and even diarrhea and vomiting. These symptoms can also occur with a mild case of the swine flu. The difference between a mild case of the flu and a dangerous case appears as the disease progresses.

Swine Flu (H1N1) Virus Symptoms

Swine flu virus symptoms, or even seasonal flu with complications, will develop more severe symptoms. According to the Centers for Disease Control, the warning signs that a child has a severe case of the swine flu virus and needs medical attention are clear. A child in need of a doctor breathes quickly, or has difficulty breathing, and may have a bluish skin color due to this problem. A fever with a rash may also be an indication that the child needs to visit the doctor. Children who are not drinking enough liquids should also see a doctor, due to the chance that they may become dehydrated.

A child that does not wake up, or does not interact normally, including not wanting to be held can also be signs of a serious swine flu infection. In addition, a child that apparently has a mild case of the flu, and begins to recover, may have a severe relapse with fever and a more severe cough. In this case, the child should see a doctor to evaluate their condition.

H1N1 Vaccination

The H1N1 vaccine is recommended for all children over the age of 6 months by the CDC. Getting the swine flu vaccination is particularly important for children under the age of 5 years, who are a high risk for swine flu complications.

Avoid Swine Flu At School

Keep Your Kids From Getting Sick From the H1N1 Virus

Helping children learn about proper hygiene can help to keep them safe from swine flu at school.

Benefits & Risks of Swine Flu Shots in Pregnancy

Health Concerns for Pregnant Women Getting the H1N1 Vaccination

Pregnant women getting the H1N1 vaccine weigh benefits and risks of the swine flu shot. Accepting or avoiding the swine flu vaccine will affect both mother and baby.

Dangers to Babies from the Swine Flu Vaccine

H1N1 Vaccination Safety vs. Risks for Infants and Small Children

Infants and toddlers are vulnerable to swine flu infection, but may not be eligible for H1N1 vaccination. The CDC advises of swine flu shot safety and risks for babies.

References:

Centers for Disease Control

The copyright of the article Prevent Swine Influenza Disease in Kids in General Medicine is owned by Victoria Nicks. Permission to republish Prevent Swine Influenza Disease in Kids in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

Help Kids Avoid Swine Flu Infection