Winter illnesses are back

Now that winter feels more like, winter, winter illnesses are back with a vengeance, too. <br><br>News on Six reporter Jenni Monet says little hands and little feet that can get into almost anything.

Friday, February 1st 2002, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

Now that winter feels more like, winter, winter illnesses are back with a vengeance, too.

News on Six reporter Jenni Monet says little hands and little feet that can get into almost anything. "We're seeing more flu than normal. We've had it." And for daycare owner LuAnne Hennessee, the germs her little ones pickup is cause for concern. "We probably clean the place twice at least a day. There are several illnesses going on around right now, most of them are viral."

Tulsa doctor Ted Kaltenbach with SouthCrest Hospital says many of these infections arrived late this year. Infections like the common cold, flu, strep throat and RSV. "The season for RSV usually hits around the end of November to around the first of December here, so it's a little bit delayed this year." It's why LuAnne has posted a warning, "It's just kinda a heads up." For parents to see at pickup time. "Of course there's always the chance that they've already been exposed." Exposed to viral germs doctors say children can pickup anywhere at anytime. "Usually we just don't know exactly where they get it, it's very contagious.â€ Contagious, in the form of classic symptoms such as fever, runny noses, sore throats, breathing problems and abnormal coughing.

"This time of year we're also seeing a lot of croup and croup will cause a barky cough that sounds like a seal." It's why health experts say keeping your kids free from infection this season comes down to two things. "The best way to avoid in decreasing the transmission of these viruses is good hand-washing certainly and avoiding people known to be ill.â€

Just as little ones can easily pick up contagious germs, so too can adults. It's why health experts say, go ahead and be a bit excessive in washing your hands several times a day.

And another thing, drinking plenty of water and getting in plenty of exercise will only help you stay healthier these next contagious weeks ahead.