Is the Swine Flu in Your Backyard?

Posted April 29, 2009

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Swine flu panic is striking moms everywhere.

Posted Wednesday, April 29, 2009 by Jackie Morgan MacDougall

The U.S. - and several other countries -- are in a panic over the swine flu, the latest health crisis terrifying parents everywhere.

I understand the fear. "Clusters" of flu symptoms are even being reported where I live, with two probable cases and two possible cases just miles from my house. With tests not expected back for a few more days, it's easy to freak out.

But what do we do while we wait? I have resisted the urge to yank the kids out of preschool and batten down the hatches, living off canned goods, water and cash stashed under my mattress for a potential disaster. (And by cash, I mean 5 bucks -- in this economy, that was the first to go.)

I decided instead to look at this logically. What a refreshing concept.

So far, 66 cases of swine flu have been reported in the U.S., including the death of a 23-month-old in Texas. It is absolutely scary, and we should take serious precautions.

But before you get on the crazy train I was about to embark on, remember this: Approximately 100 people per year die from being struck by lightning. Thousands are killed in accidents --accidental poisoning, and accidental falls, (including 1000 a year from falling down stairs). It is even said that some have been known to die laughing - LAUGHING. And 36,000 people die annually from the non-swine related flu, but how many parents never even squeeze in the flu shot to combat that?

Pediatrician Dr. Gwenn O'Keefe understands the fear. "It's always frightening to learn of outbreaks that the CDC labels as a 'public health emergency.' Not only is this virus not as strong as the influenza virus we prepare ourselves for each flu season, you actually already know how to prepare for the swine flu should it come to your area!

Precautions

The same precautions you take for the human flu, are all you need for the swine flu to stay safe. Really, it is that simple.

• If sick, stay home. (The CDC recommends adults stay home for 7 days after symptoms begin and kids stay home for 10 days after symptoms begin.)
• Practice good hand washing.
• Throw away used tissue and cough in the elbow of your arm.
• Call your doctor with any concerns about any member in your home with flu symptoms.

Prevention

Without a doubt, hand washing is the single most effective way to keep germs at bay and prevents illness and infection. But, you have to do it the right way for it to be effective.

Here's a quick guide on hand washing that will zap any germ in its tracks:

1. Turn the faucet on with a paper towel. (While the CDC recommends only turning off the faucet with a paper towel, it's a good idea to use one to turn it on since the sink is contaminated).
2. Wet your hands with warm running water and apply soap.
3. Rub hands together vigorously to make a soapy lather.
4. Rub all surfaces including your wrists, between your fingers, back of your hands and under your fingernails and cuticles, and around any rings.
5. Rub your hands for 15-20 seconds.
6. No timer is needed; just imagine singing "Happy Birthday" x 2.
7. Rinse your hands well.
8. Dry your hands using a paper towel or air dryer.
9. Use your paper towel to turn off the faucet if possible.
10. Always use soap and water if your hands are visibly dirty.

Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are an excellent alternative if soap and water are not available.

Dr. Gwenn adds, "As parents, it's really important to teach our kids good health hygiene from the very start so healthy habits can continue as they get older.

Jackie Morgan MacDougall, on the never-ending quest for balance, enjoys life in Los Angeles with her husband, Jeff, and their three small kids.

Related articles on Family.com:

The Flu Shot Debate