When flu season hits, parents should be prepared to take care of their children if they become sick. The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that can cause mild to severe illness. Symptoms of the flu include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue. Children are more likely to get the flu than adults, and they can be contagious for longer periods of time, making it essential to know what to do if your child gets sick.
If you suspect that your child has the flu, it is important to act quickly to prevent the spread of the virus and to help your child feel better. The first step is to keep your child at home and away from others to prevent them from spreading the virus. You should also encourage your child to rest, drink plenty of fluids, and take over-the-counter medications to relieve symptoms such as fever, cough, and sore throat. However, if your child is very sick, has a high fever, or is having trouble breathing, you should seek medical attention immediately.
Recognising Flu Symptoms in Children
Flu symptoms in children can be similar to those of adults, but they can also be different. It is important to know the common symptoms of flu in children so that you can take appropriate action.
Common Symptoms
Common symptoms of flu in children include:
High fever (usually above 38°C)
Sore throat
Dry cough
Fatigue and weakness
Aches and pains
Headache
Runny or stuffy nose
Chills
Loss of appetite
Vomiting and diarrhoea (more common in children than adults)
If your child has some or all of these symptoms, they may have the flu. It is important to note that not all children with the flu will have a fever, so it is important to look out for other symptoms as well.
Symptoms That Require Immediate Attention
While most cases of flu in children are mild and do not require medical attention, some symptoms require immediate attention. These symptoms include:
Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
Bluish lips or face
Severe or persistent vomiting
Not waking up or not interacting
Seizures
Chest pain or pressure
Severe muscle pain (not caused by exercise)
Dehydration (not urinating, dry mouth and throat, no tears when crying)
If your child has any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
In summary, recognising flu symptoms in children is important so that you can take appropriate action. Common symptoms include high fever, sore throat, dry cough, fatigue, weakness, aches and pains, headache, runny or stuffy nose, chills, loss of appetite, and vomiting and diarrhoea. Symptoms that require immediate attention include difficulty breathing, bluish lips or face, severe or persistent vomiting, not waking up or not interacting, seizures, chest pain or pressure, severe muscle pain, and dehydration.
Steps to Take if Your Child Has the Flu
Consulting a Healthcare Professional
If you suspect that your child has the flu, you should consult a healthcare professional immediately. Schedule an appointment with your pediatrician. If your child is experiencing symptoms after the office's business hours, you can look for local urgent care service locations in or around your area.
It is important to note that not all children with the flu require medical attention. However, if your child is under five years old, has a high fever, is experiencing breathing difficulties, or is dehydrated, it is recommended that you seek medical attention immediately.
Home Care Strategies
While your child is sick, it is important to keep them comfortable and hydrated. According to Harvard Health, you should encourage your child to rest and drink plenty of fluids to keep them hydrated, such as clear juices, broth, oral rehydration solution (for infants), and popsicles (which are great for sore throats, and eating them is the same as drinking).
It is also important to keep your child comfortable by keeping the room temperature comfortable and dressing them in light clothing. You can also use a humidifier to help ease their breathing.
When to Use Medication
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over-the-counter medications, such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen, can be used to help relieve your child's fever and aches. However, you should always consult with your healthcare professional before giving your child any medication.
It is important to note that antibiotics are not effective against the flu, as it is a viral infection. Antiviral medications may be prescribed by your healthcare professional if your child is at high risk of complications.
Preventing Flu Spread in the Home
It is important to take steps to prevent the spread of the flu to other members of the household. According to the Health Service Executive, you should encourage your child to cover their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and to wash their hands frequently. You should also disinfect surfaces that your child comes into contact with, such as toys and door handles.
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