So my dad just called. He thinks he's been exposed to H1N1 and possibly

[GreenPartyVoter]

exposed my boys as well. I guess I will call my doc on Monday and see about whether or not shots would make a difference at this point. (I think they may have just gotten the vaccine in or will be shortly, as the school clinic is scheduled for the 12th of this month.) Wish I could have had them vaccinated before this.

Editing to add that in my dad's case he is not in the best of health, has asthma, and is prone to bronchitis and pneumonia. So we're a bit more worried for him than the kids at this point.

[rucky]

1. Look into elderberry extract

while you're waiting. Couldn't hurt.

[GreenPartyVoter]

2. Thanks. I will do that.

[timeforpeace]

18. Don't you have to be careful about cyanide in elderberry products or leaves or something?

[GreenPartyVoter]

20. I'll do some research, thanks!

[Warpy]

3. The shots won't work if they've already been exposed

and especially if they show symptoms. You should know if anyone's got it in 3-7 days.

This is a mild flu for most people, a nasty flu for a few people, and a killer for a tiny percentage. The danger sign is increasing difficulty breathing. Quick action in an ER and immediate dosing with Tamiflu has been the most effective way to save kids who run into trouble.

Good luck. Just realize the statistics are on your side and if the kids aren't sick this time next week, get those shots.

[GreenPartyVoter]

6. Thanks. Dad's feeling a bit achy, so I'm going to keep checking in with him over the next

few days to see if there's anything more to it.

[enlightenment]

4. Friend of mine just got through both of her boys (6 & 8)

with it. One has severe asthma, as well. A week of pretty much standard flu symptoms and they're back to being annoying (but cute) little boys again.

Try not to worry too much about the vaccine - it's a nice layer of defense, but it's not a cure-all, right?

Good luck.

[GreenPartyVoter]

7. Thanks. That does make me feel better. :^)

[Barack_America]

5. What makes your dad think he has H1N1?

If he has obvious tell-tale symptoms, I would consider putting a call into your pediatrician. He/she might be willing to give you a script for Tamiflu, should you boys start showing symptoms.

Best of luck.

[GreenPartyVoter]

8. He works with someone who has a very young family member who has it. I will

definitely be keeping an eye on everyone in the family, just to be on the safe side.

[Coyote_Bandit]

9. Shots for H1N1?

Not here. This metropolitan area of over 1 million got a total of 4,400 immunizations delivered to the county health department. Good luck getting one - even if you are in a high rsk group.

Remind me again - who was it that promised sometime last spring that vaccinations would be available before flu season?

[GreenPartyVoter]

10. Yeah, it sure has been bad in terms of getting the vaccine out.

[elleng]

24. Manufacturers/distributors

[hlthe2b]

11. GIven your father's asthma & history... he should probably call

his provider asap to see if they want to script out Tamiflu for him... Suggest he do so, if he is certain he was closely in contact with someone with flu.

[GreenPartyVoter]

13. Yeah, I think I will encourage him to do that.

[hlthe2b]

17. Should be started within 48 hours of exposure, so don't delay...

[GreenPartyVoter]

19. Shoot. That would make it too late already then. :^( The exposure would have occurred on

Thursday I think.

[hlthe2b]

22. Not necessarily.. 48 hours is optimal, but can be beneficial later

and CDC has recommended their use for those at higher risk WHile older people are less likely to become infected, they are at higher risk of complications if they do become ill with either seasonal or H1N1 flu--particularly those with chronic lung or heart disease. I'd still suggest he let his provider know and let him/her make the decision.

[GreenPartyVoter]

23. Yeah, he has heart and lung problems so it does sound like a little late is better than not at all.

Thanks!

[Shagbark Hickory]

12. Supposedly elderly people actually do better with swine flu and may have some ammunity as compared

to regular seasonal flu which is more dangerous for elderly than young people. Pig flu is the opposite.
Learned me this on Dr. Nancy so have some confidence.

[GreenPartyVoter]

15. Yeah, that's why he called me. To let me know for the boys' sake.

[debbierlus]

14. I had it and it went into bronchitis. Make sure he uses his inhalers and drinks lots of fluids

[GreenPartyVoter]

16. Will do. Glad you recovered all right. :^)

[Cirque du So-What]

21. There once was a time on DU

when dispensing medical advice was frowned upon. Apparently that day has passed.

[cbayer]

25. Locking

Although the OP was not soliciting it, they are receiving medical advice. If you have concerns for the health of your family and your self, please contact your medical professional.

I hope you and yours stay healthy.

Cheers,

cbayer
DU Moderator