Winter Update


Is it a COLD or is it the FLU?
Symptoms
Cold
Flu
Fever
Rare
Usual; high (100°F to 102°F, occasionally higher, especially in young children);
Can last 3 to 4 days
Headache
Rare
Common
General aches and pains
Slight
Usual
Fatigue / weakness
Sometimes
Usual;
Can last up to 2 to 3 weeks
Extreme exhaustion
Never
Usual; at the beginning of the illness
Stuffy nose
Common
Sometimes
Sneezing
Usual
Sometimes
Sore throat
Common
Sometimes
Chest discomfort / cough
Mild to moderate; hacking cough
Common;
Can become severe
Treatment
-Antihistamines
-Decongestants
-Tylenol or Ibuprofen
Antiviral medicines – see your health care provider
Prevention
Wash your hands often with soap and water
Avoid close contact with anyone who has a cold
Annual Flu vaccine
Antiviral medicines – see your healthcare provider
Complications
Sinus infection
Middle ear infection
Asthma
- Bronchitis
- Can worsen chronic conditions
-Can be life-threatening, more likely in the elderly, those with chronic conditions, young children, and pregnant women
Tips to keep you and your child healthy this winter
1.    Get outside, when possible, to get some Vitamin D from the sun.
2.   Eat healthy. Make sure that what you give your child for snack is healthy and gives them energy.
3.   Get moving and get some exercise, even if it is making a snowman or going for a walk.
4.   Drink plenty of fluids since the dry heat from being indoors or in the car can make us dehydrated.
5.   Use a humidifier if the air in your home is dry.
6.   Keep you and your child home when you or they don’t feel well. Rest helps to strengthen our immune system and staying home benefits those we work and learn with.
6. Do things that make you happy