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Reye's syndrome is a rare but serious disease that most often affects children 6
to 12 years old. It seems to be related to the use of aspirin to treat some
viral illnesses, such as chickenpox and flu.
Reye's syndrome primarily targets the brain and liver. Brain swelling and
chemical changes in the blood from liver damage affect the entire body.
Drowsiness, confusion, seizures, coma, and in severe cases, death may result.
The most important step you can take to prevent Reye's syndrome is to avoid
giving aspirin or products that contain acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) to anyone
younger than 20 unless a health professional has specifically prescribed it.
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