How to Protect Kids from Swine Flu During Christmas ?

Why is this new strain of influenza called "swine flu?" This virus actually contains genes from bird, swine, and human viruses, which means it can infect animals and humans. In most cases, particular strains of influenza only affect one species, but there are exceptions, and the swine flu is one of these. What is alarming about this new strain of influenza is its ability to pass from one person to another by simply becoming airborne (for example through a cough or a sneeze) or through skin-to-skin contact (like holding hands). With the ease of transmission comes the fear of a pandemic, and thus swine flu protection for kids is a prevailing thought in the minds of most parents.

Many of the precautions that you take to keep your children safe are actually common sense preventative measures. The following steps may not keep your child 100 percent safe from contracting swine flu, but then again, they may be just what is needed to keep your child from getting sick.

Get the flu vaccine-While obviously the flu vaccine won't protect you or your child from every influenza strain, including the swine flu, it can go a long way toward keeping your child healthy, particularly through the flu season.

Educate your children-Help them get into the habit of avoiding touching their hands, nose, and eyes to reduce the spread of germs.


Washing hands-This is probably the most important and the simplest step you can take to protect yourself and your child. Help him or her get into the habit of washing hands frequently throughout the day. If you don't have access to water, you can still use alcohol-based cleansers and even baby wipes to clean your child's hands.

Consider your travel plans-Don't ask for trouble. Once the ban of travel is lifted to certain areas, don't immediately assume you can travel there. For now, take a "wait and see" attitude, and play it safe.

Avoid skin-to-skin contact-While of course this doesn't mean you shouldn't hug and kiss your own children, you can refrain from shaking hands, hugging, and kissing others at least until the apparent risk has diminished substantially.

Educate yourself-The best defense against any health threat is knowledge. Stay up-to-date on any health threats in your area. If there is a swine flu breakout near you, be aware that children can be contagious for as long as 10 to 14 days after the start of the symptoms.

Be aware-Pay attention to where you take your children, who they play with, and what is going on in your community. If you notice your children around those who appear sick, remove them immediately from the situation, and of course, wash, wash, wash their hands!

More information on Swine flu protection in kids in details:

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