The common symptoms of swine flu or H1N1 virus are similar to those of seasonal flu – fever, headache, tiredness, cough, sore throat, runny nose, body aches, diarrhea, and vomiting.
Public health officials say parents will play a key role in helping stem the spread of swine flu or H1N1 virus.
Here are some suggestion on when to keep your child home from school:
- When their fever hits 100 degrees or higher
- If they have a sore throat, cough, runny nose, body aches, vomiting, or diarrhea
How long should children be kept out of school?
For seven days after symptoms start or until they are completely well for a full day, whichever is longer. If your child is still sick after seven days, keep your child at home until completely well for 24 hours.
When should a child be checked at a clinic?
There are no special recommendations for swine flu. Treat it as normal flu and call your clinic if your child is ill enough that you would normally seek medical treatment for him or her.
How do I protect my children from getting the flu?
General rules for preventing the spread of winter time viruses are especially important now. They include:
- Wash hands often with soap and water. Always wash after coughing or sneezing. If soap and water are not nearby, use an alcohol-based hand cleaner.
- Cover coughs and sneezes with their elbow or a tissue. Throw dirty tissues away and have children wash their hands.
- Do not touch eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs can spread this way.
- Stay away from people who are sick.
Source: Public Health Seattle &King County
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