When you're sick...

[Nemesis]

Any tips/advice on how to cope when you are sick and your child is sick?

He's 7 wks old, has pneumonia, a virus that has given him terrible diarrhea and a throat infection. I've also got the virus and now have developed flu symptoms. - my body aches all over and I have a sore throat and a cough.

I don't want to give him the flu on top of his issues already but I have to care for him, pitting us in very close contact. I try to wash my hands alot but that's not really practical when you have a screaming newborn.
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[Liat]

This is the worst scenario I've faced as a parent.

On top of not wanting to give them more ickies, you also just want to sleep and be ill yourself.

The sad fact is that your kiddo will probably always give you what he has.

I'd maybe grab a bottle of antibacterial gel stuff to slop on and I guess try not to breathe on him.
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The Lover, The Lunatic and the Poet are of Imagination all compact.

[Crumb]

I would ask your pediatrician for advice. I would be very very hesitant to do anything that would expose him to the flu on top of pneumonia. Can your husband take over baby-care until your symptoms subside?

[Chiquita]

Aww. Sorry to hear this. Both kiddo and hubby have had the flu before (at different times) and no one else in the family caught it even though we shared a bed at the time. IMHO it isn't inevitable that your family will catch the flu but yes, it is tricky to avoid.

While you don't have the same scenario we did this is what I would try:

Give youself all the OTC meds needed to keep yourself feeling well enough to tend to your little one during the day.

Lots of hand washing and make sure you have plenty of tissues handy. Also maximize your calorie intake during the day so you get lots of fluids and serious amounts of vitamin C

Have your hubby take over the parenting jobs ENTiRELY when he gets home from work. You go straight to bed, no house or parenting chores at all. If he can take long lunches or 1/2 day off to give you relief during the day that is great.

Also have hubby make sure you have lots of healthy foods at your fingertips during the day.. Even if that means he gets carry out soups etc. he may need to make late night trips to the grocery store while you are resting.

I'd also call your pediatrician or personal doctor and ask for advice. Funny how having the mama sick is an entirely different scenario the daddy being the sick parent! Hope you feel better soon.