1. Keep away from others as much as possible. Do not go back to work or school until your fever has been gone for at least 24 hours (without the use of anti-fever medication.)
2. Get plenty of rest.
3. Drink lots of clear liquids (such as water, broth, sports drinks, or electrolyte beverages for infants) to keep from being dehydrated.
4. Cover coughs and sneezes. Wash hands with soap and water or use an alcohol based rub.
5. Wear a mask if available when around others to prevent spreading the disease.
6. Use anti-fever medication as needed such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil). Children or teenagers should NOT be given aspirin!
7. Safest care for flu symptoms in children younger than 2 years of age is using a cool-mist humidifier and a suction bulb to help clear away mucus.
8. Be watchful of emergency warning signs that might indicate that you need to seek medical attention.
9. They would include:

-difficulty breathing or chest pain

-purple or blue discoloration of the lips

-vomiting or unable to keep liquids down

-signs of dehydration such as dizziness when standing, absence of urination, or in infants a lack of tears when crying

-seizures

-is less responsive than normal or becomes confused

Sponsored By : SW Region Influenza Coalition