What's Going Around The Metro This Week

Influenza isn't the only type of flu - going around. Dr. Carey Ertz in Millard says Gastroenteritis or the Stomach Flu is also getting family's sick. Symptoms include: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and mild fever - along with chills, body aches, crampy abdominal pain and a decreased appetite. Clear fluids, Pedialyte and a bland diet are recommended. Parents should avoid milk for 2-3 days and avoid medications to stop diarrhea.

Dr. Robert Beer in West Omaha says he's seeing patients with Strep Throat. It starts with sudden onset of sore throat and fever and is often accompanied by enlarged tonsils with white spots and tender, swollen glands in the front of the neck - with little or no coughing. The doctor can diagnose Strep and prescribe antibiotics to treat it. Rest, fluids, over-the-counter medication and lozenges may offer additional relief. If untreated, the symptoms may go away, but there is still a small chance of heart-valve infections, kidney failure and other complications.

In Council Bluffs, Dr. Mel Roca is seeing a few cases of Viral Bronchiolitis. It usually affects children less than two-years-old. Most are sick for 7-10 days.Symptoms resemble a cold at first - with congestion, runny nose, coughing and mild fever. Then comes "first time wheezing" - which may be accompanied by a rapid rate of breathing. If this happens - or if a child's skin develops a bluish color - especially the lips or fingertips - they need to see the doctor. Most patients are treated at home with bronchodilators - using vaporizer or nebulizer. If a child has an underlying heart or lung condition, was born premature, has weak immunity or is dehydrated - the doctor may admit him or her to the hospital. High fever, signs of dehydration, blood in stool or vomit and inability to keep food down are all signs - to see the doctor. The stomach flu is contagious - so children should be fever-free with for 24 hours - before returning to school.

Dr. Mindy Lacey in Midtown is seeing children with Upper Respiratory Infections. Cold symptoms include runny noses, coughing, sore throats and sometimes fevers. To help prevent children from getting a cold - she suggests frequent hand washing, regularly cleaning clothes, bedding, toys and teething devices. Dr. Lacey also reminds parents to bundle kids up before sending them outside to avoid frostbite Here's what parents need to watch out for: Difficulty breathing, severe pain, - or signs of dehydration. If a child has any of those symptoms they need to see a doctor.

About the Author...
Serese Cole