Kids Health Watch is Sponsored by Children’s Medical Group
Influenza season is upon us, so let’s discuss how best to protect our children from the flu and what steps you can take when your child is diagnosed.
Influenza (or flu) is a common virus that your household will likely encounter on an annual basis. It’s an odd virus in that it is very seasonal and typically only occurs at a certain time of the year. It is highly contagious, which leads to its seasonality and ‘outbreaks’. There are several different types of flu, which fall under two families called the ‘A’ family and the ‘B’ family. Essentially, flu from either family typically has the same symptoms with few variabilities.
Symptoms of the Flu include fever, chills, body aches, cold symptoms, vomiting, and diarrhea. Uniquely, flu symptoms can have a very sudden onset; they typically do not gradually appear. Once symptoms begin, they can last 3-5 days. Flu is a virus, which means antibiotics will not treat the flu. The primary course of treatment for flu is to treat the symptoms as they appear. This means Tylenol or Motrin for pain/fever, cold medicines for respiratory symptoms, and encouraging fluid intake–especially for children. There are also other options for antiviral medications which can help with symptoms. Your pediatrician can help decide if one of those medications is best for your child.
Flu, especially in children under age two, children with asthma, or children with any other immunocompromising conditions, can become dangerous. These children need to be watched closely. Complications for these children can lead to pneumonia or a few other infections, which may require further treatment.
Flu prevention is something your pediatrician will likely talk to you about as flu season approaches. The flu vaccine is available for anyone over the age of 6 months, and if your child is less than 6 months, it is recommended that the rest of the household receive the vaccine to help them until they are old enough to receive the vaccine themselves. Proper handwashing and avoiding large crowds during the peak of flu season can also be helpful in preventing flu in your house.
As always, your pediatrician will be your best resource in discussing prevention or treatment of flu this season.