Final answer:
Reye Syndrome is a serious condition linked to the use of aspirin in children and teenagers with viral infections, leading to brain and liver swelling and possibly death. The CDC recommends against using aspirin in children under 19 with viral illnesses. Since 1988, the FDA has required aspirin-containing products to carry warnings about this syndrome.
Step-by-step explanation:
Reye Syndrome and Aspirin
Reye Syndrome is a severe condition that occurs primarily in children and teenagers following a viral infection such as influenza or chickenpox. Key findings of Reye Syndrome include swelling in the liver and brain, which can lead to neurological damage, coma, or even death. It is particularly associated with the use of aspirin (salicylates) during a viral illness.
To prevent the onset of Reye Syndrome, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) along with other agencies, strongly advise against the use of aspirin in children younger than 19 years old when they have a viral infection, such as a fever or the flu.
Since 1988, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has mandated warning labels on all aspirin products about the potential risk of Reye Syndrome. To safeguard against this rare but severe condition, it is crucial to read medicine labels carefully to ensure they do not contain aspirin, especially when treating children who have a viral infection.