This is the month when kids across the country return to class or set off to college. Unfortunately, this is also the season of the H1N1 virus and a host of other allergens and childhood ailments. Because the H1NI virus is particularly virulent and contagious, returning to school this year presents a unique set of health concerns. Parents need to be more proactive to make sure their children and teens remain safe and healthy throughout the school year. Below are a few helpful tips:
H1N1
According to the Centers for Disease Control, the H1N1 flu, also known as "swine flu," has sent over 8,000 people to hospitals in the U.S. since April, 2009, when the virus was first detected in Mexico. Over 500 U.S. patients have died so far. Like the seasonal flu, the H1N1 virus is spread through sneezing and coughing by infected people. Children and people with auto-immune deficiencies are particularly vulnerable. Although schools around the country are taking additional measures to sanitize school buildings and grounds, close classroom quarters make it more likely that the virus will pass from one child to another. Small, confined dorm rooms are conducive to transmission as well. One way to ensure your child or teen is protected is to get him or her immunized. A vaccine specifically created for the H1N1 virus has just been approved by the FDA and will be made available sometime in October. Doctors encourage even those who have already suffered through the virus to get re-immunized with the new vaccine.
Other ways to prevent transmission of the H1N1 and seasonal flu viruses is to impress upon your children the importance of covering their mouths when sneezing. Experts encourage people to sneeze into their clothing instead of their hands. Also, frequent and thorough hand washing with soap and hot water can help prevent transmission.
Although it isn't necessary to treat the condition as an emergency, the earlier the detection, the more likely that doctors can better fight the virus. This is true for both the seasonal flu as well as the H1N1 virus. Symptoms will usually last 4 to 10 days unless complications arise; during this time, doctors stress that sufferers get plenty of rest and liquids and take either acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil), or naproxen (Aleve). Younger children and undergraduate students are discouraged from taking any type of aspirin as it may cause complications for those suffering from the influenza virus.
Children with any cold or flu like symptoms should refrain from attending classes to prevent further transmission.
ASTHMA
For children who suffer pediatric asthma, going back to school is complicated by unexpected attacks and just outright misery. Parents should prepare an asthma action plan with the family's physician that includes what medicines to use before physical activities, a list of pre-attack symptoms, and possible aggravators as well as emergency phone numbers. Also meet with school health personnel either before the school season or during the first weeks about everything in the action plan. Make sure special instruments such as a peak flow meter which measures your child's peak expiratory flow are on hand at school. If the peak flow is less than 80% of your child's best measurement, rescue medication should be taken to offset a full attack. With a good peak flow meter and a good asthma action plan, occurrences can be sufficiently limited, giving your child a more normal school experience.
GENERAL SAFETY
Traveling back and forth to school is a commonplace event. However, accidents can happen when children venture off on their own. Simply walking to their school bus can be hazardous. Unfortunately, predators present a very real danger. Parents should establish a familiar route for their children and when possible, to walk in groups. They should know that it is never acceptable to talk to strangers or accept rides from anyone. Tell them that if a situation feels wrong, it probably is.
With new friends, new teachers and new adventures, returning to school can be fun and exciting. With these general health and safety tips, your child's school year can be a safe and healthy one.
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