In Sickness & Health: Breaking the Infection Chain

How are germs spread? By touching, eating drinking, or breathing in germs.

What causes influenza? It is caused by viruses.

Can you get “swine flu” from eating pork? No.

What is the best way to prevent flu and other diseases? Immunization, plus handwashing and other health hygiene practices

Safety: An Ounce of Fire Prevention

What are the most common causes of fire in childcare programs? Cooking mishaps, appliance malfunctions, electrical problems, and heating issues.

What are the best types of smoke detectors? Hard-wired systems are more reliable than battery-operated detectors. Check with your local fire marshal or building inspector

Where should smoke detectors be placed? One on each story in front of doorways to stairs, in corridors, in lounges and recreation areas, in sleeping rooms, etc.

When should you use a fire extinguisher? Only if the fire is contained, you know how to use the extinguisher properly, everyone is safely evacuated, the fire dept has been called, and the room is not filled with smoke.

Nutrition Action: Vitamin C and Meal Planning

What does Vitamin C do in the body? It is involved with making collagen, a protein found in skin, blood vessels, gums, ligaments, tendons, and scar tissue. It helps heal wounds and maintain healthy teeth, bones, and cartilage.

Where is Vitamin C found naturally? Fruits and vegetables such as broccoli, cantaloupe, kiwi, citrus fruits, juices, strawberries, etc.

Are supplements (vitamins) needed? No, if the child eats a balanced diet, he/she will get enough vitamin C

Can you get too much Vitamin C? No, because excess vitamin C is excreted each day through urine.

Medicine Chest: Tummy Troubles:

What are possible causes of tummy aches? Stress, dislike of a food, overeating, need to use toilet, constipation, viruses, foodborne illness, or more serious problems such as appendicitis.

What are three symptoms caregivers should observe to tell parent? Did pain come suddenly: Where is pain located, Does child have other symptoms such as fever? Is the abdomen enlarged? Did the child eat?

What are three symptoms that indicate immediate medical treatment is needed? Frequent vomiting, vomiting blood, inability to keep fluids down, severe diarrhea, blood in bowel movements, extreme pain, fever over 101 degrees, signs of dehydration.

Should a child be excluded after a single episode of vomiting or diarrhea? No, unless there are also other symptoms.

Health & You: Indigestion

What is indigestion? It is a collection of symptoms such as heartburn, nausea, stomache ache, gas, and bloating.

What are some lifestyle changes to manage indigestion? Eat smaller and more frequent meals, chew foods completely and slow down, avoid triggers such as alcohol or spicy foods, and try to relieve stress.

Should one consult a doctor? Consult a doctor if pain becomes worse, lasts longer than usual, or occurs frequently, or if you are worried.

Are over-the-counter medications safe? They are safe and effective in most cases; however, consult a doctor if you have persistent indigestion.