Hey, folks.

Ok, so for those of you who know me, I've become a bit more paranoid since TWO of my three kids were diagnosed with this rare disease that at the time, they said only 1 in every 2 million people get.  Now, I'm sorry to say, I'm a huge worrier.  But I find, that whenever I come to my MM family, you are all such a huge comfort to me.

So-here it is.  The swine flu.  I know I shouldn't spend so much time worrying about the "what ifs" - but I can't help it!  They keep saying the only people really vulnerable are those with chronic illnesses or compromised immune systems.  My girls, since there diagnosis in 2003 and 2004, catch EVERYTHING that goes around school!  I've already given them the lecture about handwashing, staying extra well hydrated, keeping away from people who are sick - but I can't get it out of my head!!  Tonight, we even got a message from the school superintendant - it was sent out to all town families, saying that FOR NOW, the schools are safe for kids to attend.  FOR NOW????   

Help!  I need words of wisdom!  Calming voices!  Quick!!

Thanks, guys.  I love ya to pieces!!

Kristen

I live in MN where there was a case of it. I also go to school. They are just giving you infromation to help protect yourself. It sound like you are doing the right thing by infroming your kida about proper hygene. That is all I was told to do in school. I go to a Catholic school and they asked everyone to pray so that no one else get this flu.  The power of Prayer and proper hygene should stop this thing from getting us.
Becky

Hi Kristen,

I'm a mom too and it's our job to worry about our children's well-being. It's ok to be concerned, just don't panic. Panic is not only unproductive, it is unwarranted.  

The swine flu cases in the USA have been mild. What we don't know is how severe and how far the virsus will spread. The 23 month old child who died in Texas was visiting from Mexico.

So far,there is no evidence in the USA that the H1N1 virsus is any worse than the common seasonal flu.

Although there is no medicine specifically to treat the swine flu, some of the antiviral meds used to treat common seasonal flu may help to ease some of the symptoms and make a person feel better faster. At least that is better than having nothing to treat the flu symptoms.

All we can do for now is to take the necessary precautions to wash hands often or use handsanitizer and especially before eating and cough or sneeze in a tissue or arm but not hands. Avoid touching eyes and mouth and avoid being around people who are knowingly sick.

Recognize the symptoms of fever, cough, sore throat, body aches or headaches and tiredness and if you or the kids have those symptoms call the doctor.

I hope this helps to ease your concerns.

Hang in there mom!

Hugs,

Lore