News

Holidays and the Flu

The holidays are fast approaching, and it’s a wonderful time for fellowship, hot chocolate, and common colds. During this time of year, it’s very important to make sure your kids are healthy and vaccinated to prevent the spread of viruses. Flu vaccines are now available. Guidelines recommend that everyone 6 months and older should receive a flu vaccination every year. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for kids to spread the flu while at school. However, a vaccine is very helpful for prevention.

Ebola Symptoms

As the outbreak of the Ebola virus spreads in West Africa, including a few isolated cases in the United States, there are a few facts you should read to educate yourself about the symptoms. Early Ebola symptoms are very similar to symptoms of other viruses such as fever, headache, cough, vomiting and diarrhea. More severe symptoms can include bleeding (internally and externally). Visit the Center for Disease Control’s website to stay updated.

Prevention

So what can you do to help? Here are 4 ways you can teach your kids to stop the spread of germs and viruses. Wash your hands. Always wash your hands. Hand washing is one of the best ways to prevent viruses and germs immediately. Remember using soap and water is still very effective in eliminating germs. Cover your mouth. It is now recommended that you cough or sneeze into your elbow and NOT your hands. We now know that coughing or sneezing into your hands actually spreads germs quickly, especially if you don’t wash them immediately. Using a tissue or wipe to cover coughs and sneezes is also a great way to prevent the spread of germs. Avoid touching your face. Kids love to touch their faces even with dirty hands. Using tissues, wipes, or hand sanitizer is great to help kill harmful bacteria and spreading germs. It is great to carry with you if you are not accessible to soap and water. Make sure you carry it with you at all times. If sick, stay home. If your child is not feeling well or starts showing symptoms of a virus then he/she should remain home. Monitor the temperature and communicate with your physician immediately.