Almost every kid gets the flu from time to time. Most recover without medical care. However, says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), each year over 20,000 kids are hospitalized for complications related to flu. Supportive care is appropriate for all kids. Kids under five and kids with certain kinds of medical problems may need antiviral drugs to help them fight the flu.
Supportive Care
Supportive care provides relief from symptoms to make the child more comfortable. For example, the CDC recommends non-medicinal remedies such as a cool cloth or a tepid bath as the first line against a fever that interferes with rest. If those measures fail, over-the-counter medications may be considered. The American Academy of Family Physicians suggests pain relievers that contain acetaminophen--Children's Tylenol, for example--to treat fever and soothe headaches and muscle aches and pains. For more ideas on how to provide supportive care, consult the references listed at the end of the article.
Tamiflu
According to MedlinePlus, Tamiflu (oseltamivir phosphate) is a prescription antiviral drug that is FDA-approved to treat flu in people of any age, including infants. Tamiflu works by interfering with the way the influenza virus replicates in a person's body. It should be given as soon as possible after symptoms begin. In some cases, a doctor may prescribe Tamiflu for a child who is not yet sick to prevent him from ever developing the flu. Tamiflu comes in both a capsule and a liquid form for kids who are too young to swallow pills.
Relenza
According to MedlinePlus, Relenza (zanamivir inhalation) is a prescription antiviral drug that is FDA-approved for the treatment of flu in kids seven and older and for the prevention of flu in kids five and older. Relenza works the same way as Tamiflu, but it is dispensed as a powder that is inhaled through the mouth using a device called a diskhaler. Relenza is contraindicated in kids with asthma or a history of wheezing because it can make these symptoms worse. It also contains lactose, so it's not for kids with milk allergies.
