Influenza, or more commonly known as “the Flu”, is a respiratory infection that affects the throat, nose and lungs. It is caused by a virus that is highly contagious and is more common in the fall and winter. It is usually spread in close quarters, such as school classrooms, when droplets are inhaled from an infected host, usually through coughing or sneezing.

What Are the Symptoms?

Most people who get the flu will only get a mild infection. This can be recognized by the following symptoms:children and the fly

  • a high fever (up to 104 degrees F)
  • headache and body aches
  • chills and shakes
  • general aches and pains
  • fatigue and weakness
  • a runny stuffy nose
  • a sore throat
  • dry, hacking cough
  • sneezing
  • vomiting

It may take several days to start feeling better. Some parents mistake the flu for a stomach bug. Most symptoms usually last for two to seven days, however the cough and weakness can last up to six weeks.

What Should You Do?

If your child has the flu, try to make them feel better and try to avoid spreading the virus to others. It is very important to keep your child hydrated. Try giving them frequent small quantities of fluids, such as water or tea. Clear liquids are best. Fluids should not contain caffeine.

If your child has a fever, aches and/or pains, you can give them acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin). Do not give acetylsalicylic acid (Aspirin) to a child under sixteen years of age. Do not give cough medicines to children under six years of age. Please remember to always read the label before giving any medicine to your child.

It is important that you also try to contain the virus so that others and yourself do not become infected. Keep your child home for a minimum of twenty-four hours. Do not allow them to share food or drinks with you or others. Try to keep them in bed and resting as much as possible. Keep them in a separate room from others in the household.

In addition to clear fluids and pain medicine, you can:

  • apply heat on painful areas for short periods of time using a heating pad or warm cloth to reduce muscle pain
  • give them a warm bath
  • have them gargle a glass of warm water
  • use saline drops or spray to clear a stuffy nose

Do not forget to call your doctor. The physician can properly diagnose the flu and give recommendations when needed.