When Dorothy and her companions were on their way to the Land of Oz to see the Wizard, they found their confidence waning at the thought of “lions and tigers and bears, oh my!” As we head into this fall season, the confidence of many parents is waning at the thought of H1N1, aka “Swine Flu.” Contrary to media reports, the world is NOT coming to an end as we know it. This update is an appeal to apply parental common sense.

Let’s take a quiz. (All in good fun!)

Question #1: Your child has a runny nose, sneezing, cough, and a temperature of 100 degrees. They have:

A: Swine Flu

B: the common cold.

Answer B: the common cold. (See how easy that was!)

Question #2: Your child has vomiting, diarrhea, and a fever of 102. They have:

A: Swine Flu

B: a stomach virus.

Answer B: a stomach virus. (You’re doing great!)

Question #3: Your child has a rash. They have:

A: the Swine Flu

B: a rash.

Answer B: a rash. (If you missed that one you are in serious trouble.)

Many times we are asked “what is a dangerous fever”. The answer is not as complicated as you might think. Ask yourself three questions: 1. What do I think is causing the fever? (See prior quiz.) 2. How ill does my child look? They may not feel well, but do they really look that sick? 3. How do they respond to the usual things that we recommend? (Acetaminophen, ibuprofen, rest, increased fluids). They might look ill at the moment, but if they are running around the house an hour later after ibuprofen that is reassuring. Put yourselves in their shoes. How would you feel and act if you had similar symptoms? Don’t be surprised if they act the same way as you would.

Therefore as fall begins, we are appealing to parents to use common sense. The phone lines are going to be extra busy. Appointments for sick children may be in high demand and harder to come by. If you can do your part, it may help decrease some of the phone calls and leave appointments open for those that need them. We have been making preparations all summer for this coming flu season. However, we also need your patience, cooperation, and understanding so we can get through this sick season together. Your help is greatly appreciated.

Later in September we will have the latest updates on H1N1. We will also post times when we will have flu shot clinics in the office. No appointment will be necessary, so please don’t call us. All you will need to do is bring your child to the dates and times listed. Thanks for all your help.

LPA