A Parent?s Guide to Flu Season
During flu season, most parents are on high alert. No one wants their child coming down with a viral illness that can cause a wide range of uncomfortable symptoms, sleepless nights and missed school. The flu can also be very dangerous for kids, so it?s wise to make extra efforts to keep kids safe this flu season.
While the flu isn?t always serious, it can be dangerous for babies, young children, or people of any age who have other medical conditions. Around 20,000 kids are hospitalized each year from flu complications. The flu infects the nose, throat, and lungs, so children with asthma are often at higher risk of experiencing complications from the virus.
A child can easily pick up the illness at school, or anywhere kids are in regular contact with other kids. In schools, daycares or even at home, there are steps you can take to keep your kids safe from the flu.
? The flu shot is a very effective way to prevent the illness. Vaccination is recommended for everyone over the age of six months. Pregnant women can be vaccinated, and the vaccination will protect the baby for up to six months post-birth.
? Caregivers, babysitters, or anyone who spends time around children should receive a flu shot.
? Even if a child is vaccinated, they shouldn?t be around someone who has the flu.
? Encourage kids to wash their hands often with antibacterial soap during flu season, and avoid touching their eyes, nose, or mouth. If soap and water are not available, antibacterial hand sanitizer is a good alternative.
? Take extra care to disinfect high touch areas such as kitchen surfaces, toys, and doorknobs.
If your child gets sick, make sure they get plenty of rest and fluids. Keep them home for at least 24 hours after the fever is gone to avoid contaminating others. If your child is at a high risk for the flu or has asthma, seek medical care right away if they develop any flu symptoms.
Kroger and The Little Clinic have a great reason for you and your family to stop by our clinics to receive a flu shot. For every flu shot administered this season at The Little Clinic or Kroger Pharmacy, Kroger will donate one meal to the Feeding America network of food banks through its One Shot/One Meal Initiative.
To learn more about the One Shot, One Meal program or to find a clinic near you, visit www.TheLittleClinic.com.
