Swine Flu Latest Halloween Scare
Health Officials Seek Changes During Trick-Or-Treating
Trick-or-treaters should probably keep their hands out of the candy bowl this weekend because of the ongoing swine flu pandemic.
It's just one way that experts suggest will keep children from getting swine flu on Halloween. Health officials hope parents will distribute candy instead of allowing children to grab their treats out of candy bowls.
That's because swine flu can be spread by touching something with the virus on it and then touching the nose or mouth. Swine flu is similar to seasonal flu and can be spread through coughing or sneezing by infected individuals, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Since children are at a high risk of catching swine flu, and younger kids are more susceptible to serious complications, parents should bring hand sanitizer or wipes to trick-or-treating. Experts also suggest buying costumes wrapped in plastic and sanitize all masks.
When trick-or-treaters return to their homes, they'll be plenty of candy tempting them, but doctors said to stay away from the treats until hands are thoroughly washed.
It's the first Halloween when kids have had to worry about catching swine flu, and officials said if someone doesn't feel good on Saturday, it's probably a good idea to stay home and not distribute candy to other children.
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