Flu Resource Center - Guides and Tips to Keep Families Healthy January 9, 2013
Hospitals in our region are seeing an increase in influenza virus (flu) cases this winter. Children’s National has put together a guide to help keep you and your family safe during this flu season. Our team of specialists will continue to update this information with the latest guidelines, news, and information you need for you and your family this flu season, so check back regularly for updates. If there is additional information that you would like to see on this page, email us with your suggestions atfeedback@childrensnational.org.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers: Flu Season
Why do I see employees wearing a mask?
At Children’s National Medical Center, the quality and safety of patient care is our first priority. Many research studies have shown that vaccinating healthcare providers against the influenza virus is an effective way to prevent the spread of flu among patients and staff. Therefore, all of our employees have been asked to receive their vaccine in a timely manner. For many different reasons, we have staff who cannot receive the vaccine. For the protection of our patients and visitors, we require these employees to wear a mask when they come to work to prevent the possibility of spreading flu.
Should I come to visit if I don’t feel well?
Prior to your visit, we ask that you notify your child’s healthcare team if you’ve experienced any of the following symptoms within the past 5 days:
Fever (≥100°F or feeling feverish but no temperature taken)
Cough
Sore throat
Body aches, chills, and fatigue
Rash or other skin infections
Vomiting or diarrhea
If you have answered “yes” to one or more of these symptoms, we would suggest you do not visit until you have fully recovered. This is in the best interest of the patient you plan to visit and to help us fight the spread of infections in the hospital.
Talking with Children about Flu With so much media coverage about the flu, it is likely that children will have concerns about how the flu affects them, their friends, and family. Here are some tips to help you minimize your children’s fears while also helping them stay healthy.
Flu Check List for Parents and Caregivers(PDF)
Use this check list to keep track of symptoms, medications, and other information so that you can relay it to your child’s doctor, if needed.
Pharmacies with Tamiflu liquid formulation
The following provides a list of pharmacies in Maryland, Washington DC, and Virginia that have assured us they will fill pediatric prescriptions for compounded Tamiflu suspension. If you have a Tamiflu liquid prescription for your child, you may contact one of the following pharmacies to get the prescription filled.
Hospitals in our region are seeing an increase in influenza virus (flu) cases this winter. Children’s National has put together a guide to help keep you and your family safe during this flu season. Our team of specialists will continue to update this information with the latest guidelines, news, and information you need for you and your family this flu season, so check back regularly for updates. If there is additional information that you would like to see on this page, email us with your suggestions 
