News Release                   For Immediate Release

December 2, 2003

Preventing Influenza in Children and Adults

Influenza can be a fatal disease.  It is estimated that 500 - 1500 Canadians, mostly seniors, will die from influenza each year.   Parents can take several steps to understand, prevent and treat influenza in their children, and themselves.

1. Recognize that influenza is a respiratory disease caused by a virus.  Symptoms of early influenza are fever, body aching, headache, dry cough and clear nasal discharge.   Many children may vomit as a result of fever or fever medication.
2. The best way to protect your child is to have them get the flu shot. 

·        The flu vaccine is recommended for children 6 months of age or older.

·        Children under 9 years old getting vaccinated for the first time need two shots, the second shot at least 1 month after the first.

·        If your child has already had influenza this season but has not received the flu shot, Public Health recommends he/she get the vaccine to protect them from other strains of flu.  

·        Wait until your children are healthy before having them vaccinated.

3. To arrange for the flu shot, see your physician or contact the Public Health Unit at 376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456.
4. Understand that it takes 14 days for the flu shot to take effect.
5. To control a child’s fever, do not use acetylsalicylic acid (ASA).  This can harm your child.  Use acetaminophen or ibuprofen instead.
6. Encourage frequent hand washing in your home.  Wash hands vigorously for at least 10 seconds using warm water and soap.
7. For more information about the flu, see these web sites

·        Public Health: www.publichealthgreybruce.on.ca

·        Health Canada: http://www.health.gov.on.ca/english/public/program/pubhealth/flu/flu_03/flu_mn.html

·        Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care:

www.hc-sc.gc.ca/pphb-dgspsp/fluwatch/index.html

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Attachments:

·        Why Your Kids Should Get a Flu Shot

·        When a Child is Unwell with Influenza

For more information:

Karen Sweiger

Public Health Nurse

Infectious Disease Program

Public Health

376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456