The flu, or influenza, it defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as a contagious respiratory illness caused by a virus. The disease can also have a digestive component. Children are at greatest risk of having high risk of complication for the flu. Most flus resolve themselves in two weeks, but medical help is recommended if symptoms are severe, or if high fever develops. Symptoms of the flu frequently come on suddenly, and can include coughing, nausea, diarrhea, chills, aches, and sore throat.
Antiviral Medication
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC, recommends antiviral medications for children with severe symptoms or complications from the flu. These complications can include ear infections, sinus infections, seizures, myocarditis, and encephalitis. More severe complications can include pneumonia, or bacterial infections. The CDC recommends antiviral medication if children require hospitalization or have risk factors, such as deficient immune system, liver disorder, blood disorder, diabetes, heart disease, or those on long-term aspirin therapy.
Chicken Soup
Though there is no evidence based research to support the claims, chicken soup has been used to treat symptoms of the flu. For thousands of years, chicken cooked in warm water has been used as a remedy, as far back as ancient Babylonia. Chicken soup is mentioned by healers Moses Maimonides and Rabbi Abba. The minerals in the broth are easily absorbed and the warm liquid helps relieve congested sinuses and soothe sore throats, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Pain Relievers
Over-the-counter pain relievers can help reduce the suffering of flu symptoms, however the Mayo Clinic does not recommend giving acetaminophen to children. They also advise against the use of aspirin because of the potential of the rate but sometimes fatal disease of Reye's Syndrome. They do suggest using ibuprofen.
