Coronavirus
General Info 2020
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Measels Information
2019 outbreak in North America.
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Preventing Norovirus
Outbreaks of Novorvirus can be caused by eating contaminated food or being in crowded close places
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Prepare for Your Child's Vaccines
Vaccines or shots may cause some pain. These tips can lead to a more
positive immunization experience for both you and your child.
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What is Pertussis?
Pertussis, or whooping cough, is a disease of the nose and throat...
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Balancing Calories to Manage Weight
Following the eight healthy eating goals above can help your body get the
nutrients it needs.
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Prepare for Your Child's Vaccines
Vaccines or shots may cause some pain. These tips can lead to a more
positive immunization experience for both you and your child.
Tip #1: Prepare your child before the visit
All ages:
Children are very aware of the emotions of their caregivers. Although
immunizations may be stressful for you, try to be calm during the
appointment and when talking about immunization with your child
Use a matter-of-fact, supportive approach
Toddlers and young children:
In general, toddlers and pre-school age children over 2 years of age should
be informed about the vaccine shortly before the clinic visit or appointment.
For school age children:
One day of advance preparation is enough for most school age children.
Older children may benefit from longer preparation time, but it can depend on
how your child copes.
When you discuss the vaccine and clinic visit with your child:
DO:
- Stay calm, speak in an even and soft tone of voice
- Answer questions honestly, and use words that lessen anxiety - for
example, "you may feel pressure, squeezing, or poking". Do not use
words such as "pain, hurt, or sting".
- You can say "You need the vaccine to stay healthy. The medicine will
be put in your arm with a needle. You will feel a quick poke."
DO NOT:
- Use words that focus the child's attention on the needle, such as "It will
be over soon and you will be okay."
- Give false reassurance, such as "It won't hurt." See "do" section above
for suggested answers to the question, "will it hurt?"
- Apologize - for example, "I am really sorry you have to go through this."
- Consider using numbing creams and patches:
These products ease the feeling of pain by blocking pain receptors in the skin.
Apply the product according to the package instructions generally 60 minutes
before the appointment. Supervise your child after you apply the product so
that they don't accidentally eat the cream or patch. Numbing creams and
patches can be bought without a prescription at most pharmacies.
For specific information on where to apply numbing creams or patches, ask
your health care provider.
Tip #2: Comfort your child at the appointment
Use these tips to comfort your child at the appointment.
Children of all ages:
Comforting restraint: Cuddle your baby or child firmly in your lap in a
seated position.
Why? Being held close to you calms your child and helps keep legs and arms
still so vaccines can be given safely. Sitting upright helps children feel more
secure and in control. Ask the health care provider for examples of upright
positioning.
Distraction: Use bubbles, a pinwheel or a squeaky, light-up or musical
toy to distract your child immediately before and during the vaccination.
Ask older children questions about something they are excited about.
Older children can also use books, music players, or hand held video
games to distract themselves.
Why? Research shows that the part of the brain that processes pain is less
active when children are distracted during immunizations.
source: http://www.healthlinkbc.ca/