New/Flu Worries

sallen26 · January 2015

Hi all, I've been a member of the bump throughout my pregnancy, but somehow didn't notice the birth boards. I'm due April 18th, and I am a first time mom.

Out of curiosity, I am a teacher and getting nervous about going back to school with all of the kids and the flu craziness. I've had my flu shot this year, but I am still feeling extra paranoid about it. (I think the hand sanitizer on my desk will be getting quite the workout come monday.) Anyone else in the same boat, or have ideas/suggestions to avoid getting sick??

ChanStew · January 2015

welcome! If it makes you feel better, I heard that the strains covered by the flu shot will hit Jan/Feb, and the strains hitting now aren't covered by the flu shot.

So, realistically, if you've survived until now...you have a chance of being okay.

Wash and sanitized everything, there's not much else you can do.

bananafanafofashley · January 2015

I'm a pedi nurse. Same worries. Don't touch your face and put that sanitizer to good use. I've already Gotten RSV this year

sallen26 · January 2015

I like hearing that! It's nice to meet you!

Disneygeek77 · January 2015

Once you start getting symptoms, call your Dr and ask if he wants you on Tamiflu. My DD was diagnosed with the flu and a few days later I started having the same symptoms. I called my Dr that day and he put me on Tamiflu. I think that really helped to keep me from getting really sick.

sallen26 · January 2015

@bananafanafofashley - That doesn't sound like fun. I wish you luck against the germs, too.

missab · January 2015

No advice, but welcome @sallen26‌!

carter604 · January 2015

I'm a fan of keeping strong with lots of sleep, staying warm and eating well (in addition to frequent hand washing and not touching your face). As soon as I start to feel like I'm coming down with something I take a hot bath and snuggle up in my coziest pyjamas and get to bed early with a hot cup of tea - most of the time I'll wake up feeling good as new.

specialsn0wflake · January 2015

I think the PPs have it covered, but welcome!

Oh, I'm not sure if it's an option, but perhaps sending home any child you notice is sick? Doing so would protect you and their classmates. If you're able to do that sort of thing.

RNmama2b · January 2015

Welcome @sallen26‌ I'm an ER nurse so I completely empathize with you! There are days I wish I could wear a full blown hazmat suit to work... PPs have nailed it with good preventative advice! Hoping you stay healthy as you return back to school!

Sharon&Paul · January 2015

I work in pediatric medicine, so I am constantly exposed. Though I really don't go around in fear. It is just my personality. The best thing you can do is good hand washing and don't get run down. if you do come down with flu-like symptoms seek care sooner than later. Tamiflu works best when given in the first 48 hours of symptoms.

karboss · January 2015

I feel your pain. Add to that diapers in my classroom--all EIGHT of them--and we are the same. The hand washing, sleep, vitamins, water, and making sure you use universal precautions for all things bodily fluid related including the dreaded snot. Wash those desks and tables A LOT. We do it in the AM, before/after snack and lunch, and at the end of the day.

sallen26 · January 2015

To all, thank you for the support/advice. I'm hoping my students will have strong immune systems and will stay home when sick. :-)

Streed1 · January 2015

I am a teacher as well. I am very worried about this too. I have already had a stomach virus. Wash hands a lot, sanitize your room, and talk to the students about how important it is to stay well during flu season or even do a lesson on germs. I know I will be sending students straight to the office if I see they are sick in anyway. Hopefully your office staff will support you on this, especially since you are pregnant. Good luck!!

ewilson74 · January 2015

@sallen26, @shortskirtlongjacket‌, I too am a teacher due on the 18th.

Soap and water, don't touch face.

bmblebea · January 2015

Welcome! Teacher here too- I wipe down everything and wash my hands like a crazy person. Also,with my little guys, as soon as their hands go in their mouth or nose I make them go wash their hands immediately. I second pp who said avoid touching your face!

Unknown · January 2015

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JAP09-02 · January 2015

I hear ya! My DH is a hospitalist and currently being tested for the flu (ugh). Everything above pretty much covers what to do to help prevent it. Oh and welcome!

Scarlettg · January 2015

I'm not a teacher, but it amazes me how many folks will be sick enough to take off of work but not too sick to miss coming out to the bar and getting drunk. I rely on hand sanitizer, frequent wipe-downs, and asking the buttheads to clean up their own snotty tissues. So far so good: I've had a cold, but not the flu.

ETA: Signature fail. Again. One day I will figure this crap out!

chicsugar · January 2015

Teacher here also. I plan on having my students use clorox wipes on every imaginable surface everyday all day. Funny thing is that I don't like to use harsh cleaning products at home, but I am playing the selfish, pregnant card here- I don't want the flu!