What can we do for children with the flu?
HOW DO I KNOW IF MY CHILD HAS THE FLU?There is no easy test for influenza (the flu). Simple signs are fever, cough, muscle aches, and nausea or vomiting. Some children will have mild signs while others may become quite ill. Flu is also different from other viruses because it lasts longer and fevers tend to go higher. A fever above 102 for more than 3 days is very common.
WHAT TREATMENT IS AVAILABLE?
The most important things to do to keep your child comfortable are to keep them well hydrated and to control the fever. Clear liquids, especially pedialyte or sport drinks, are helpful. Fever control should be attempted with acetaminophen or ibuprofen. It is common to need this medicine for several days. This is quite safe when used in proper doses.
There are some anti-viral medicines to make the flu a little less uncomfortable. All of these medicines must be started early in the illness if they are to have an effect. Very young children should not take them. It is best to discuss these with your pediatrician to see if your child or family might benefit from taking these ‘anti-flu’ medicines.
Antibiotics do not help people with the flu. The flu illness is caused by a virus and viruses do not respond to antibiotics.
WHAT ABOUT SPREADING THE FLU AROUND?
Influenza is quite contagious. By the time you are aware a family member has the flu, the whole family has been exposed to the germ. Steps you can take in your home are to wash hands frequently and do not share tableware or food. Children should not return to school until the fever has been gone for more than 24 hours.
Should my child get a flu shot?
Flu shots are recommended for children with some chronic diseases, especially lung diseases. While no vaccine shots are perfect, most (including the flu shot) are reasonably effective at preventing disease. Flu shots must be repeated every year to be effective. It takes between 3 and 6 weeks before your flu shot is helpful. Therefore, it is best to get your flu shot in October or November, several weeks before the onset of the flu season.
Symptoms and Sickness Guide
Categories:
Appointments ·
Bronchiolitis (RSV) ·
Business Matters ·
Coughs and Colds ·
Croup ·
Diarrhea ·
Fever ·
Growth and Development ·
Immunizations ·
Influenza (Flu) ·
New Patients ·
Newborn Baby Care ·
Nutrition ·
Parasites ·
Potty Training ·
Sore Throats ·
Summer Fun