The Swine Flu has been given pandemic status and is running rampant in many areas of the U.S. Parents of infants and toddlers are especially concerned, since infants fall into one of the groups at risk for more serious complications from the Swine Flu.
Swine Flu is not necessary more deadly than any other strain of the flu but it is highly contagious. Every year 50-80 children die from complications from more common strains of the flu, so it is especially important for parents with infants or toddlers in the home to take precautions to prevent the spread of the pandemic flu to their own home.
Preventing the Swine Flu in Infants
Prevention is always the best medicine and should be a first barrier of defense in protecting babies from the Swine Flu. Parents can protect infants from the Swine Flu by washing their hands frequently, doing their best to prevent their baby from touching her eyes, nose, or mouth and putting items in her mouth, and avoiding contact with anyone showing signs of the Swine Flu.
Symptoms of the Swine Flu in Infants
Symptoms of the Swine Flu in Infants are similar to symptoms of the common seasonal flu. According to the Center for Disease Control, “The symptoms of novel H1N1 flu virus in people are similar to the symptoms of seasonal flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue”. Babies showing these symptoms do not necessarily have the Swine Flu but should be watched closely for more serious complications.
Treatment of Swine Flu in Infants
Most cases of Swine Flu, including cases in infants and toddlers, will resolve without medical attention. Parents can treat the symptoms at home by using natural cold remedies and Tylenol or Motrin according to their baby’s weight. Most antiviral medication cannot be given to infants under 1 year of age but could possibly be given to family members who show early signs of the Swine Flu virus.
Other members of the family should be sure to wash their hands thoroughly and sanitize items in the home frequently. Parents should want infants infected with Swine Flu for any signs of more serious complications and work to keep them hydrated. Infants can be given Tylenol or Motrin to treat symptoms of Swine Flu but should not be given cough medicine as it puts them at risk of complications from the medication.
Complications for Infants From Swine Flu
The Center for Disease Control states, “Research has shown that children less than 5 years of age are at high risk of serious flu-related complications.” Children who have pre-existing health conditions are going to have further elevated risk of complications. Serious complications from the Swine Flu in infants and toddlers include respiratory distress and dehydration.
When to Seek Medical Attention for Infants Infected with Swine Flu
Parents should seek medical attention if their infant or toddler begins so show signs of respiratory distress or other signs of more serious complications from the Swine Flu. According to the CDC, symptoms that require emergency medical attention include, fast breathing or other signs of respiratory distress, blue or gray skin color, dehydration, persistent vomiting, not waking up, extreme irritability, and developing a fever and more serious cough after symptoms appear to improve.
Parents should contact their baby’s pediatrician if they have any questions about whether or not their baby needs medical care for the Swine Flu.
Protecting Other Family Members from the Swine Flu
Homes with an infant infected with Swine Flu can prevent the spread of the virus by staying in isolation for 10 days from the start of symptoms. Other members of the household can limit their risk of contracting the H1N1 virus by washing their hands frequently, wear a face mask if possible, and avoid close contact with the baby infected with Swine Flu.
Swine flu is a widespread problem in many parts of the country. Local health authorities can offer advice to parents of infants that is relevant to their community. With proper disease prevention practices and appropriate medical care, parents can keep infants and toddlers safe from serious complications from the Swine Flu.
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