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All families should be warned about a new virus that begins with a cough and fever and within two days can turn deadly. Patients in four states, including Oregon and Texas have arrived at hospital Emergency Departments barely able to breath as a result of the virus called the adenovirus. The virus, that usually results in a severe cold has turned into a killer. So far, 10 people have died, over a thousand have been infected and many have been hospitalized. The adenovirus affects people of all ages, strengths and health. Families should be aware that "there is a virus out there that can make you very, very sick. If you have a bad cold and your symptoms keep getting worse, go
see your doctor. This is nothing to be necessarily alarmed about. But
it is important to be aware that this bug is out there." said John Su, a disease investigator for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. *It is important to note that not all people who come down with the
virus suffer from such severe symptoms, but because some do, it is
important to stay on top of illnesses that have these symptoms
especially when they do not appear to be getting better. If your child is sick, there are some things you can do that will help with treatment: - In a notebook, keep a log of fever temps and medication times and dosages
- If your child has a fever over 100 degrees, use appropriate and regular doses of acetaminophen or ibuprofen (this means stay on top of the 4-6 hour or 6-8 hour dosage recommendation for 3-5 days or until the fever is gone)
- If your child's fever is not responding to fever reducers, callthe pediatrician.
- If your child's symptoms do not appear to be improving within a day or two or if they appear to be gettting worse, schedule an appointment with the pediatrician.
- If you do not feel confident with lab test results or a certain prescribed medication, discuss this with your child's doctor.
- Make sure your child has plenty of fluids during a fever, at least 1 Tablespoon every 15 minutes.
- Give your child extra attention during this time, even just sitting with him or her and/or reading a book together can help boost your child's spirits.
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Communication 
