H1N1 (Swine) Flu
My youngest was diagnosed with H1N1 about 2 months ago. While we were lucky and had no complications and it ran its course quickly, this flu season is going to be tough on everyone. GET YOUR FLU SHOTS! The news says that the H1N1 shot is as safe as the regular flu shot; I’m not a doctor so I won’t comment. But at the very least, get the regular seasonal flu shot. Here’s some information from my pediatrician’s website regarding the H1N1 virus:
If Swine Flu (H1N1 Flu) is widespread in your community and your child has Swine Flu symptoms with a fever, then he or she probably has Swine Flu. You don’t need to get any special tests. You should call your doctor if your child is HIGH-RISK for complications of the flu (see the following list). For LOW-RISK children, you don’t need to call or see your child’s doctor, unless your child develops a possible complication of the flu.
Children are considered HIGH-RISK for complications if they have any of the following conditions:
- Lung disease (such as asthma)
- Heart disease (such as a congenital heart disease)
- Cancer or weak immune system conditions
- Diabetes, sickle cell disease, OR kidney disease
- Diseases requiring long-term aspirin therapy
- Pregnancy
- Healthy children under 5 years old are also considered HIGH-RISK
- Note: All other children are referred to as LOW-RISK
Children who develop the following complications need to be seen by their doctor:
- Ear infections and sinus infections occur in 10% of children
- Pneumonia: both viral and secondary bacterial (mainly in HIGH-RISK children)
- Influenza-induced flare-ups in those with asthma
- Dehydration, often due to a severe sore throat that limits fluid intake
- Muscle pains (viral myositis) in the legs can be severe and cause limping or refusal to walk
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