The Flu: What Parents Can do To Help Their Child

Fighting the Flu

Flu season begins every year mainly in late fall and early winter and usually spreads widely. The peak season for the flu in the Northern hemisphere is from November through March. Influenza is highly contagious. The virus is spread when someone either inhales infected droplets in the air. Coughing and sneezing are common examples. Kissing, sharing items or when someone comes in direct contact with an infected person's secretions can spread the flu bug.

Flu Symptoms In Children

Symptoms may begin 2-3 days after exposure to the virus. These symptoms usually last for 3-4 days, but cough and tiredness may linger for 1-2 weeks after the fever has gone away. Other family members or close contacts often have a similar illness. The flu comes on quickly and attacks the upper respiratory system. Classic symptoms include:

• High-grade fever up to 104°F (40°C)

• Chills

• Muscle aches

• Headaches

• Sore throat

• Dry cough

• When To Bring Your Child To A Doctor

The most difficult question for parents is when to see a doctor about flu symptoms. Many parents may believe their child may just have the common cold. Here are some guidelines about when to call the doctor:

• Fever continues after 2 days.

• Nasal discharge lasts more than 10 days.

• Nasal discharge becomes thick and yellow.

• Discharge is coming from the eyes.

• The child has difficulty breathing

• A seizure occurs

• Headaches last for more than two days

Flu symptoms may last more than a week. Parents can help their child's aches and pains with basic home care that may involve bed rest, encouraging the child to drink lots of fluids, treat fever with acetaminophen (as directed by doctor), provide humidifier and listen to your child. Flu prevention techniques should be discussed with your child. These teaching techniques should include:

• Hand washing with soap and water or an alcohol hand gel is an important way to prevent picking up a flu virus. Avoid touching the mouth, nose, or eyes prior to hand-washing.

• Vaccination- a flu shot should be given during the fall. In children, the flu vaccine can be given to children older than 6 months and in 2 separate doses for children younger than 9 years who have not been previously vaccinated. The flu vaccine is also available as a nasal spray (FluMist) for healthy children aged 5 years or older, adolescents, and adults aged 49 years or younger.

• Avoid childhood sleep-overs during the flu season.