Final answer:
Children who develop Reye's Syndrome have usually had a recent viral infection and may have taken aspirin as medication, which is associated with the onset of the syndrome characterized by brain and liver swelling.
Step-by-step explanation:
Children who develop Reye's Syndrome usually have recently had a viral infection, such as the flu or chickenpox. Reye's Syndrome is a serious condition that leads to swelling in the liver and brain, and can result in neurological damage, coma, or even death. An important factor associated with the development of Reye's Syndrome is the use of aspirin during a viral infection. Therefore, health agencies such as the CDC recommend against the use of aspirin in children and teenagers younger than 19 years old when they are experiencing symptoms of a viral infection.
To prevent Reye's Syndrome, it is crucial to avoid taking aspirin or aspirin-containing products during viral infections. This can be a challenge since many over-the-counter cold medicines contain aspirin, so it is essential to read medicine labels carefully. Awareness of Reye's syndrome and its association with aspirin is key to preventing it in children recovering from viral illnesses.