Bella's Butterfly Kisses

Wednesday, December 5, 2012

I finally found a few minutes to write something. I forgot what it was like to be busy every second of the day. Although I have to admit that I would not have it any other way. I love being home with Julian and having him all to myself. He is such a good boy and I can see so many similarities between him and Bella. Being that it's flu season Frank and I are being very vigilant with Julian and staying away from to many people and especially to being around people that are sick or have sick family members that live within thier household. Our pediatrician had told us that if a child under two becomes ill it is very dangerous. It is a risk thatI a not willing to take. It awkward to say to people that you would prefer that they would not come over at this time. But I am not afraid of an awkward conversation. My own sister hadn't seen Julian until he was almost One week and a half because my niece was ill and she did not feel well. My mother purposely took a week off of work to spend at my house but had a tickle in her throat so she went to the doctors and asked for a prescription just in case. I cannot say enough how much I appreciate that they did those things. It shows me that they respect my wishes no matter what they think of them. Being that Isabella caught a common virus that lead to something much worse I am on high alert of any illnesses (especially strep or throat issues). So do not take it personally if we decline a visit at this time. It is nice that Frank and I are on the same page regarding this. I think that he is as concerned as I am. Iris different raising achild after loss. The bliss of being a parent is often competing with the reality of what could be. Well I think that Iam going to try to sneak in some sleep while I can. Miss you Bella. Julian is so lucky to have you as a big sister.

4 comments:

Susan said...: What wonderful news - so very pleased for you and Frank. Welcome to the world Julian xx Please try not to worry -I know it is hard. I was very keen to avoid chicken pox, and would do things like avoiding people who had been in contact with a child who had it... but I stopped short of never going anywhere just in case we caught it. Can you have a discussion with your pediatrician about practical things you can do to minimise risk? I thought that once a child reaches 1 their risk of dying is pretty low? I also think the principle cause of death is SIDS - rather than infection. After 6 months, you could take the flu vacinne, but I have a feeling that assuming you were vacinatted, that the immunity crosses the placenta? Anyway, perhaps you can explain your fears and see what you can do to limit risk - telling you that a child getting sick under 2 is very serious, to my mind, is not especially helpful. Catherine was almost 4, and she died too. I suppose the thing is, you don't want to take unncecessary risks, but you need to be proportionate, so that you don't end up depriving yourself of all the pleasure that Julian will bring you, because you are so terrified of something that most likely wouldn't happen anyway - even if you took no precautions at all. Lots of love to you xx; December 5, 2012 at 2:43 PM
marisa said...: Hi Susan,

It is so nice to hear from you. I retread my post and realize that I forgot to write the months after two. Two years would be a really long time. Even though, you and Iboth know that age does not protect our children. I think that once the holidays are over and Julian is over his two month mark, I may loosen up a bit. We will see.

Thinking of you and your precious girls,

Marisa; December 5, 2012 at 3:52 PM
marisa said...: Hi Susan,

It is so nice to hear from you. I retread my post and realize that I forgot to write the months after two. Two years would be a really long time. Even though, you and Iboth know that age does not protect our children. I think that once the holidays are over and Julian is over his two month mark, I may loosen up a bit. We will see.

Thinking of you and your precious girls,

Marisa; December 5, 2012 at 3:52 PM
michelle said...: Codie and I are the same as we take immense precaution over everything. It's hard for others to understand that but who cares we are justified and better to be safe than sorry and have our own piece of mind.xo to you, Frank Bella and lil Julian. ps email me a pic of him sometime. xoxo; December 10, 2012 at 12:07 PM

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Group A Streptococcus: The Facts

(Information courtesy of Directors of Health Promotion and Education - http://www.dhpe.org/)

What is Group A Streptococcus (Group A Strep)?
-a bacterium commonly found in the throat and on the skin
-the letter "A" is in reference to the specific classification of bacteria in the genus Streptococcus
-in some cases Group Strep A might cause no symptoms of disease, while in others, it can cause infections ranging from mild to life-threatening
-it is spread by direct person-to-person contact
-can usually be treated with anti-biotics

What are the related infections?
-mild illnesses: strep throat or impetigo
-serious illnesses: scarlet fever, rheumatic fever, postpartum fever, wound infections, pneumonia

Early Signs and Symptoms:
-strep throat: fever, sore throat, swollen lymph glands
-skin infections: red, weeping skin sores
-scarlet fever: the above symptoms plus a characteristic rash on the neck, chest, skin folds and inner thighs

Ocassionally, a more deadly strand of Group A Strep can bring on two rare, but severe diseases:

1. Necrotizing Fasciitis
-often called the "flesh-eating disease"
-an infection that attacks the deep layers of tissue
-occurs when the strain enters through an opening in the skin
-for unknown reasons, the strain becomes very aggressive, releases a toxin and destroys flesh and muscle

Early Signs and Symptoms:
-fever and sever pain, swelling, heat and redness at a wound site

Note: In Canada, 3-7 people per 1 000 000 are affected each year with necrotizing fasciitis, which is approximately 90-200 cases per year. 20-30% of these cases are fatal.

2. Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome
-causes a dangerous drop in blood pressure
-damages kidneys, liver and lungs
-toxin causes irreparable damage to tissue and organs

Early Signs and Symptoms:
-fever, dizziness and confusion
*this disease has no sign or symptom that make it distinctive from other illnesses

In all instances of Group A Strep infectiosn, symptoms will appear quickly, within 1-3 days.

What are some preventative measures?
-wash hands thoroughly and often
-ask your doctor for a throat culture for a sore throat paired with a fever
-keep wounds clean
-seek medical attention for infected wounds paired with a fever

How is Group A Strep contracted?
-the bacteria are carried in the discharges of the nose and throat of an infected person and/or in infected wounds or skin sores
-the bacteria spreads when it comes in contact with the eyes, nose or mouth of an uninfected person
-the bacteria can also enter the body through cuts and scrapes
Note: When an infected person is ill, the risk of contamination is the highest. People who are infected with no symptoms are much less contagious. Household items like cups, plates and toys do not play a significant role in the spread of Group A Strep.

Who is at risk?
Anyone.

What is the treatment for Group A Strep infection?
-various anti-biotics
-early treatment may limit the risk of death but does not prevent it in every case