October Flu

This past week we saw more flu in the schools.  I have to say it doesn't seem too bad out there.  We are taking extraordinary steps to keep down transmission, which is a good thing.  The ones who are the most vulnerable are children with chronic illness and pregnant women.  So good handwashing, good cough and sneeze hygiene, avoid other sick individuals, get the flu shot and the H1N1 shot.

It is early to have the flu season start, that is why we believe flu episodes are most likely H1N1.  Doctors are not necessarily culturing for it, but just assuming it is.

So keep alert and if you have someone in your home who is vulnerable to the flu keep on following the recommendations (listed above) and maybe they will avoid it.  But if not, check with your doctor asap to see if anti-viral medication is needed.  Don't wait until your chronically ill child is too ill from the flu and needs hospitalization.