Flu Updates & Information
Flu season is here and we want you and your kids to be prepared. The Children's Hospital at Saint Francis is closely monitoring the current health advisories issued by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Oklahoma State Department of Health regarding the H1N1 virus ("swine flue") and seasonal flu. We have provided the general information below and web links on the resources page to more extensive information.
Watch for these flu symptoms:
- fever
- headache
- cough
- chills
- sore throat
- nasal congestion
- body and muscle aches
- loss of appetite
- diarrhea and vomiting
Most healthy people recover from the flu without complications.
What to do if you or your child experience symptoms:
- Stay home from work or school.
- Get lots of rest, drink plenty of liquids, and avoid using alcohol and tobacco.
- There are over-the-counter (OTC) medications to relieve the symptoms of the flu (but never give aspirin to children or teenagers who have flu-like symptoms, particularly fever).
- Remember that serious illness from the flu is more likely in certain groups of people including people 65 and older, pregnant women, people with certain chronic medical conditions and young children.
- If the symptoms persist or worsen, consult your doctor, but also be aware of emergency warning signs that require urgent medical attention.