Huron Regional Medical Center

"THE SCARY PART of giving so many antibiotics is further down the road," says Jesse Van Heukelom, MD, pediatrician at HRMC Physicians Clinic and member of the hospital's antibiotic stewardship committee. "Once you are resistant, you are at risk – and you're also putting your kids at risk." "It can be difficult for a parent to determine the right time to go to the pediatrician," Dr. Jesse says. "Going only when it's necessary cuts back on overprescribing, because pediatricians can feel pressured by parents who think antibiotics are a quick fix." www.huronregional.org wellone Connection 5 Keep Your Kids Safe WITH BACTERIA FIGHTING BACK, HOW DO YOU PROTECT YOUR KIDS? Jesse Van Heukelom, MD Taking steps to stay healthy – or keep your germs to yourself if you are sick – is vital to protecting yourself, your kids and those around you from illness and superbugs. Here's what you can do: 1. Get vaccinated. Make sure to get your annual flu shot, and be sure your kids stick to the recommended vaccination schedule. Vaccinating for flu can prevent serious infections that often come along with the virus, like pneumonia, and thus reduce the need for medications to treat those infections. If you're 65 or older, talk with your physician about getting vaccinated against pneumonia, too. 2. Wash your hands, especially if you've interacted with someone who may be sick. No access to soap and water? The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends using a hand sanitizer with an alcohol concentration of at least 60 percent. Prevention Tips Against Superbugs SUPER for Kids & Adults ■ To make an appointment with Dr. Jesse, call the HRMC Physicians Clinic at (605) 353-7660. Signs that you should take your child to see a pediatrician include: • breathing issues • fever that lasts longer than five days • sudden fatigue or weakness • cough associated with whooping or barking sounds Vaccinating for flu can prevent serious infections that often come along with the virus, like pneumonia, and thus reduce the need for medications to treat those infections. "Patience and prevention are essential," says Dr. Jesse. "If you're concerned, always bring them in, but prevention is one of the best ways to stave off antibiotic overuse and fight back against superbugs." One of the best ways to fight super-bugs at home is by washing your hands. Here's how to do it right. • Soap and water are best. Certain bacteria have become resistant to hand sanitizer but still respond to soap. • Wash vigorously. Rubbing hands together is part of what gets rid of bacteria, so do a lot of it. • Wash for at least 20 seconds. Kids can sing the Happy Birthday song twice to be sure they make it to 20 seconds ... and so can adults! 3. Don't be afraid to take a sick day ... from work or school. If you or your child have a fever and cold symptoms, stay home from work or school and avoid contact with others. If you have to get out – for example, to go to the doctor or drug store – wear a face mask.

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