Protect Your Family Against the Flu
The Children’s Hospital wants to help you protect your children and family from the flu. Educate yourself and encourage your friends and family to understand the latest information on the flu this year.
What is the Flu?
Influenza, commonly known as "the flu," is a highly contagious viral infection of the respiratory tract. The flu is often confused with the common cold, but flu symptoms tend to develop quickly and are usually more severe than the typical sneezing and congestion of a cold. Learn more about the flu.
How Can I Prevent the Flu?
Hand washing is one of the most important things you can do! Learn why and what is the best way to wash up! Also, be sure to consider some additional tips that help prevent getting or spreading the flu bug:
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick, and, when you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.
- Stay home when you are sick to prevent others from catching your illness. If possible, stay home from work, school, or public places when you are sick.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. If you don't have a tissue, then cough or sneeze into your sleeve. It may prevent those around you from getting sick.
- Avoid touching your face often because germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose or mouth.
Who Should Get a Flu Shot this Year?
Be sure to consult with your child's doctor about the flu vaccine. Also learn who is a top priority for the vaccine this season, how the vaccine works, side effects and other considerations.
Does My Child Have a Cold, or Is It the Flu? A Guide to Symptoms
To help determine whether your child is fighting the flu or combating a cold, walk through a simple symptom checklist.
What Should I Do if My Child Gets the Flu?
First, consult with your child's doctor for advice. Also be sure to learn the things that can help your child feel better.
Find a Physician for Your Child
Your child’s doctor should be your primary resource for answers to your flu questions. If you do not have a doctor for your child, contact The Children's Hospital ParentSmart HealthLine at 720-777-0123 or online for help finding a doctor and for answers to your general questions about the flu.
Bird flu is an infection caused by avian (bird) influenza (flu) viruses - these flu viruses occur naturally among birds. Learn more from the Centers for Disease Control and the World Health Organization (WHO) about Avian Flu.
