Influenza
An infection of the respiratory tract (nose, throat, and lungs). It is caused by a virus that spreads easily from person to person. Flu season in the U.S. is October to May.
What To Expect:
- Most people start to feel sick after 2 days of being in contact with an infected person
- You can expect some or all these symptoms: fever, chills, headache, body aches, fatigue, loss of appetite, cough, sore throat, weakness, vomiting, diarrhea, ear pain
Important to Know:
- Younger children (<2 years old), elderly and anyone with compromised immune system are more susceptible and more likely to have serious effects
- Highly contagious: you can spread it starting a day before symptoms started until symptoms are resolved (7-10 days) -Spreads when people cough/sneeze out infected droplets and people breathe them in; droplets can also land on things (shopping carts, tabletops) infecting people who touch them
- Most often treated at home with fluids, rest, Tylenol or ibuprofen
- Home from school/daycare/activities until fever free (without use of medications) for at least 24 hours
- Anti-viral medicine available if started within 48 hours of symptom onset
- Annual Flu shot is best way to prevent: 6 months of age and older
- HAND WASHING
When to call the clinic:
- Respiratory distress: shallow breathing, sucking in and out underneath and between ribs, nasal flaring, fast breathing
- Poor intake and/or decreased wet diapers
- Weakness or not able to be woken for feedings/play
Weekend, Holiday & After-Hours Pediatric Care
- 11107 Ulysses ST NE Suite 100 Blaine, MN 55434
- 763-333-7733
