Sunday, June 03, 2007

Health Tips for June 3

Health Tip: Leaving Your Child Home Alone

Knowing when your child is old enough to be left alone can be a daunting decision.

The Nemours Foundation says your child probably is ready if:

* She is responsible with her homework, household chores, and following general instructions.
* She stays calm and handles unexpected situations in a mature manner.
* She understands and is able to follow your rules and safety instructions.
* She makes good judgments overall, and does not put herself in risky situations.
* She follows instructions about staying away from strangers.

Health Tip: Sick After Swimming

Recreational water illness (RWI) is contracted by breathing, swallowing or having contact with water that has been contaminated with germs. The most common RWIs may cause diarrhea, skin, eye, ear and gastrointestinal illnesses.

Here are suggestions on how to prevent and avoid RWIs, courtesy of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:

* Don't swim when you have diarrhea, and don't allow children in diapers to swim when they have diarrhea.
* Practice good hygiene before swimming. Shower before entering the water, make sure children are properly washed, and always wash hands after using the bathroom.
* Make sure your child leaves the water and uses the bathroom frequently.
* Don't change diapers at or near the pool, lake or beach.
* To help reduce the risk of contracting an RWI, never swallow water while swimming.

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