With the H1N1 virus lurking around the corner, not everyone is spared. It’s not just the H1N1 virus that we should take precautions against, but also other influenza viruses that are
waiting for the right opportunity to strike. Adults generally have a stronger resistance towards
flu viruses; young children do not. Moreover, young children tend to have a higher risk for
serious complications arising from a flu attack. Hence, it is important to protect your child from these viruses.
Crowded places are often the perfect condition for the virus to spread from one person to another. Refrain from taking your young children out to public places, especially during the flu season. It is also important that your child stay at home when not feeling well, or if he or she has an existing health problem such as asthma. If you cannot leave your children behind, take some precautionary steps to protect them.
It is advisable for children to wear face masks for protection in public areas. Although the efficacy of the face mask in preventing flu virus transmissions has not been fully established, it offers a form of protection if a flu patient accidentally coughs or sneezes directly onto the face of the child. At places where human traffic is high, always move to a less cluttered area whenever possible for better air ventilation in order to reduce contact with any air-borne viruses.
The importance of personal hygiene cannot be stressed further with the H1N1 outbreak and the periodical flu season. Ensure that your children wash their hands frequently and thoroughly with water and soap. Teach them to wash their hands before they eat, after they visit the toilet, and after coughing or sneezing into their hands. Better yet, use tissue paper to cover the mouth when sneezing or coughing. If access to antibacterial soap and water is not possible, use a non-rinse hand sanitiser. Use it to clean the hands after coming into in contact with possible contaminated areas such as door knobs, elevator buttons, hand railings etc. Also, advise your child not to put anything that seems dirty into the mouth, and to avoid touching their own eyes, nose or mouth, as they could spread germs from their hands to their bodies this way.
Good health begins from within. Make sure your child maintains good body resistance through a well-balanced diet and regular exercise. Having sufficient water intake and plenty of quality rest is also important for the immune system to function properly.
If you are still feeling worried despite taking the flu prevention measures above, then you may want to consider getting your child a flu vaccination. It is recommended that children from 6 months up to 19 years old get vaccinated to reduce the risk of serious complications should they contract the flu. Check with your doctor for the latest versions of the flu jab.
Finally, monitor your child’s health closely. If they show some signs of flu (e.g. sore throat, fever, body aches, runny nose, dry cough or chills), seek help from your healthcare professional.
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