Wednesday, February 23, 2011

RSV and Influenza are HERE!!


We are seeing a very big increase in RSV and Influenza in our office lately. A quick reminder that the best way to avoid RSV and Influenza is to have good hand washing. Also, not be around sick people and if you are sick try to stay in so others don't get sick. RSV and Influenza both have similar symptoms but are very different.
The AAP defines Influenza as :
When your child gets the flu, she will probably develop a fever (temperature greater than 100°F), usually quite rapidly, often accompanied by the chills, headaches, lack of energy, a dry cough, and muscle aches and pain. As the illness progresses, other symptoms such as a sore throat and runny or stuffy nose may develop and worsen. Some children also have abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Particularly in infants, influenza can cause ear infections, croup, bronchiolitis (an infection of the lungs’ small breathing tubes), or pneumonia.
The AAP defines RSV as:
Many children with RSV infections have only mild symptoms, typically similar to the symptoms of a common cold. In children younger than 2 years, the infection may progress to symptoms more commonly found in bronchiolitis.
•Initially, the child will have a runny nose, mild cough, and in some cases, a fever.
•Within 1 to 2 days, the cough will get worse.
•At the same time, the youngster’s breathing will become more rapid and difficult. He may wheeze each time he breathes out.
•Your child will have a hard time drinking because he is using so much energy breathing. Even swallowing becomes very difficult for these youngsters.
•His fingertips and the area around his lips may turn a bluish color, a sign that his strained breathing is not delivering enough oxygen to his bloodstream

If you have any questions please call and talk to one of our nurses or schedule an appointment with your child's doctor. Remember we are open SEVEN days a week and are here to help your children at any time. Remember GOOD HAND WASHING!!....

**info from AAP.org

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