Retrieved from www.windsorite.ca September 15th, 2014
With Metropolitan Hospital closing off its Pediatric Unit to visitors under 18, and the current amount of news about this virus circulating I have been taking extra precautions in the classroom and repeatedly reminding children about proper handwashing and universal precautions. I found this information concerning this worrisome virus and thought I would share it. At this time of year we see a lot of colds and viruses pass around. At this time three of us are sick in the classroom. If you suspect that your child may have more than just a cold please see a health professional.
The rare Enterovirus D68 could be a threat to children in Windsor-Essex and the Health Unit is warning parents to be aware of the risks.
The virus, which has sent hundreds of children in the United States to the hospital, has prompted Windsor Regional Hospital to issue visitor restrictions after an increase in the number of local children being treated for respiratory illnesses.
The Health Unit says, however, no local cases of Enterovirus D68 have been confirmed in Windsor and Essex County.
The Health Unit issued these tips for parents:
With Metropolitan Hospital closing off its Pediatric Unit to visitors under 18, and the current amount of news about this virus circulating I have been taking extra precautions in the classroom and repeatedly reminding children about proper handwashing and universal precautions. I found this information concerning this worrisome virus and thought I would share it. At this time of year we see a lot of colds and viruses pass around. At this time three of us are sick in the classroom. If you suspect that your child may have more than just a cold please see a health professional.
The rare Enterovirus D68 could be a threat to children in Windsor-Essex and the Health Unit is warning parents to be aware of the risks.
The virus, which has sent hundreds of children in the United States to the hospital, has prompted Windsor Regional Hospital to issue visitor restrictions after an increase in the number of local children being treated for respiratory illnesses.
The Health Unit says, however, no local cases of Enterovirus D68 have been confirmed in Windsor and Essex County.
The Health Unit issued these tips for parents:
- Most children will have a runny nose or cough, like a common cold.
- More serious symptoms include wheezing, trouble breathing, and children not eating. Parents should seek immediate medical attention if their children have these symptoms.
- Children with asthma and children under six months are more susceptible. They should see a doctor if they have persistent fevers, coughs, or display any trouble breathing.
- To date, no children have died during the recent outbreak in the U.S.
- There is no vaccination for the virus. Treatment includes keeping a child at home to prevent the spread of the virus and administering plenty of fluids and nutrition and ensuring the child gets lots of rest.
- As with any respiratory illness, parents are advised to seek medical attention with their family healthcare provider if their children develop high fever or difficulty in breathing.
- Covering the mouth when coughing,
- Good hand washing practices done frequently, and
- Staying home when ill.
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