INFLUENZA

The annual flu vaccine is in! It is a combination of seasonal flu and H1N1 offered in both nasal and injectable form. We will not be offering flu vaccine to parents this year.

We will be offering flu vaccine first to our highest risk patients to ensure they are protected. We will be contacting our highest risk patients to schedule. If your child is considered high risk with Asthma, Heart Disease, Diabetes or any other high risk medical condition please call us to schedule your appointment.

Metropolitan Pediatrics has received no warning or concerns for Influenza Vaccine shortages but temporary shortages may occur early in the fall but as the season progresses and more vaccine is shipped, we anticipate flu vaccine for all who request it.

Flu Shot Clinic Dates by Location:

• GRESHAM CLINIC >>
• CLACKAMAS CLINIC >>
• WESTSIDE CLINIC >>
• NORTHWEST CLINIC >>

We will follow the guidelines below from the ACIP, CDC, and AAP for Vaccine administration.

Those recommendations are:

Symptoms for Influenza

Influenza usually starts suddenly and may include the following symptoms:

• Fever ( usually high )
• Headache
• Tiredness ( can be extreme )
• Cough
• Sore Throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Body aches
• Diarrhea and vomiting ( more common among children than adults )

Having these symptoms does not always mean that you have the flu. Many different illnesses, including the common cold, can have similar symptoms.

Almost every case of influenza ( 90% of people ) will have cough and fever. Other common symptoms that may accompany the cough and fever are sore throat, vomiting and/or diarrhea. An infant less than 6 months of age with a temperature over 100.5 degrees is considered a fever. These infants should be evaluated in the office.

Treatment for Influenza
Most people require home treatment for influenza.

Rest
The body is fighting a serious infection and needs rest.

Fluids
Children with influenza are at increased risk for dehydration. To check your child’s fluid level look in their mouth. If there is drool under the tongue they are doing well. If the tongue appears dry and drool is not pooled under the tongue then please call us.

Acetaminophen
(Tylenol) and/or ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) - Helps to bring fevers down and treat pain such as muscle aches, sore throat, or headaches. Infants under 6 months should be given only infant acetaminophen (Tylenol). - DO NOT GIVE ASPIRIN.

Antiviral medication may be needed in some specific cases of influenza. The medication must be started within 48 hours of symptoms to be effective. Those who may qualify for antiviral medication are children with chronic illnesses (such as asthma, diabetes, heart conditions, epilepsy), children who are immunocompromised, and/or children under the age of 5 years.

Ways to decrease the spread of influenza
Influenza is spread through droplets mostly from coughing and/or saliva. Cover your cough in your sleeve not your hand. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water and/or hand sanitizer throughout the day. Also remind your child not to share drinks.

Some helpful guidelines on whether your child should be seen in the office for their illness

• an infant under 6months with a fever greater than 100.5
• fever lasting longer than 5 days
• signs of dehydration
• difficulty breathing
• vomiting over and over
• lethargic ( extreme tiredness- difficult to rouse )