The flu can be particularly dangerous for small children. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 22,000 children are hospitalized for the seasonal flu annually. Although taking care of a child with the flu can be a challenge for parents, there are interventions that parents can try to help alleviate the symptoms of the flu.
When to Call the Doctor
If a parent suspects the flu and their child is younger than five or has chronic medical conditions such as asthma or diabetes, it is important to seek an evaluation with the pediatrician. Younger children or those who have other underlying conditions are at a higher risk for developing complications of the flu. The pediatrician should be called if symptoms from the flu become severe or are not improving. Severe symptoms may include difficulty breathing, extreme lethargy or fatigue, a high fever, or extreme nausea or vomiting.
Medications
According to Familydoctor.org, fever-reducing medications, such as acetaminophen can help with body aches and to decrease a fever. Consult with a pediatrician regarding the proper dose for your child's age and weight. Other over-the-counter medications are not proven to help with symptoms of the flu and usually are not recommended for children. Children who have the flu should rest, increase fluids, and stay away from others who are not sick.
At Home Remedies
Sometimes when a child is very congested, a humidifier can assist with helping to relieve congestion. A saline nasal spray can also help if a child is willing to use it. Sometimes a sore throat can be relieved by salt water gargles or a cough drop if the child is old enough. If a child has a high fever, sometimes a cool damp washcloth can be soothing on the head.
Prevention of the Flu
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone over 6 months of age get the seasonal flu vaccine annually. The CDC also states that the flu vaccine is especially important for children who are at increased risk of experiencing complications if they get the flu, including children of any age with chronic conditions such as asthma and children between six months and five years old. In addition, caregivers of children with chronic conditions or of children who are younger than 5 years should get the annual flu vaccine. Teaching children to wash hands properly, disinfecting surfaces appropriately and staying away from others who are sick are other ways to help prevent the flu.
Antiviral Medications
Doctors may decide to order antiviral medications for children who are at high risk for developing complications of the flu. Depending on underlying conditions, the age of the child and severity of symptoms, the pediatrician will decide if antiviral medications are appropriate for the child.
