Mothers fight flu

CHENNAI: Actor and a mother Raveena Tandon recently joined hands with Sanofi Pasteur, the vaccines division of Sanofi, to launch ‘Mothers Against Flu’, a Facebook community of mothers. This platform unites mothers from different parts of India with a single objective - to protect their children from the flu virus by creating awareness about the steps they can take to protect their kids against flu and child care in general. Influenza, often referred to as flu, though prevalent round the year, peaks during monsoon and winter seasons. Flu should not be confused with the common cold, since flu can lead to serious and severe complications. Children of course, are particularly susceptible to Influenza. The Centre for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that kids who are six months and older should get vaccinated against flu every year, in order to be protected against the disease. Recognising the popularity of the the social networking medium, Sanofi Pasteur India has launched this awareness campaign for mothers. Raveena Tandon officially became a member of the ‘Mothers Against Flu’ online community when she logged in and clicked on the ‘like’ button for the initiative's Facebook page. Speaking on the occasion, she said, “After becoming a mother, your whole life starts to revolve around your child. Not only are you responsible for all your child’s physical needs, but also for the intellectual, social and moral upbringing. I especially feel very responsible for taking care of my childrens' health. ‘Mothers Against Flu’ is an innovative campaign and I am truly happy to help create awareness about how flu can be prevented.” She added, “I always panic when my kids cough or sneeze, because I know that it is the onset of fever, flu, congestion, etc. Like most other kids, mine too become cranky when ill. So, I stay at home to monitor their temperature, entertain them and of course, soothe them during the long sleepless nights. ”