How Parents Can Prepare for Swine Flu

Novel H1N1 Influenza Preparedness for Families With Children

Nov 4, 2009

Prepare for a swine flu infection in the household by making hand washing a habit, checking supplies, reviewing sick leave and learning about severe swine flu symptoms.

Preparing for flu season each year is important, but 2009's novel influenza strain H1N1 is primarily affecting young, healthy people that don't usually get the flu. Many parents of school age and young children alike are trying to prevent swine flu infection, but with widespread flu activity it is still possible to come down with the flu despite preventative measures. Prepare for flu by gathering supplies ahead of time, discussing sick leave and developing habits that will reduce the spread of the disease, such as hand washing and vaccination.

Practice Good Hand Washing Habits

Proper hand washing with soap is a good way to stop the spread of the influenza virus, by preventing it from entering the home and stopping the spread between family members if someone does become sick. Make it a habit for everyone to wash hands immediately after returning home and always wash before touching your face, preparing food or eating a meal. Carrying hand sanitizer to use during the day is a good idea for those who frequently go to crowded or busy places.

Gather Supplies of Medicine and Food

If any family members do become sick, it is important to have pain and fever reducing medicine on hand to save a midnight trip to the pharmacy. Also, stock up on easy to prepare and nutritious meals by cooking in bulk and freezing the extra, or by keeping supplies of frozen vegetables and prepared soups at home. Post telephone numbers for the family doctor and national flu phone line on the fridge or notice board.

Discuss Sick Leave Policies

Preparing for a possible flu infection also means discussing sick leave policies with employers and schools. Confirming a sick leave policy is a good opportunity to remind reluctant employers of the importance of staying home when sick to avoid infecting others. Parents who may need to stay home with children who would otherwise be in daycare or school should also discuss arrangements in case they are required to stay home with a sick child.

Learn About Swine Flu Symptoms

Doctors are urging those with mild flu symptoms to rest and recover at home, leaving emergency room and clinic resources available to those with more severe symptoms. Many cases of H1N1 have a characteristic high fever, but more severe cases involve difficulty breathing. The United States CDC states that people with the following severe symptoms should seek medical attention immediately:

Despite the widespread nature of this flu, the vast majority of people outside of high risk groups recover well without medical attention. Even those who have been vaccinated need to be prepared for the possibility that their families may become infected with H1N1 flu, so check the medicine cupboard, keep some easy meals on hand, clarify sick leave policies and understand when it is important to seek medical attention.

The copyright of the article How Parents Can Prepare for Swine Flu in Parenting Resources is owned by Michelle Carchrae. Permission to republish How Parents Can Prepare for Swine Flu in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.