Children have a high risk of developing flu complications, only elders over 74 years is at greater risk than children. Children under two years, even healthy ones, were more likely to be hospitalized for influenza compared to older children. Flu season is between November and March.
First we need to talk about the differences between colds and flu. In the case of cold symptoms are the following: the child has a mild fever of 38, 38.5 ⁰ and present rhinorrhea (runny nose). Flu symptoms in children are more severe than in the cold and installs quickly. Symptoms may include:
-sudden fever
-chills
-extreme fatigue
-headache and muscle pain
-dry cough
-sore throat
-vomiting and abdominal pain
-stuffy nose.
Your child will feel worse in the first 2-3 days.Among the complications of influenza may counts sinusitis and pneumonia. The child should be examined by a pediatrician if fever lasts more than 3-4 days or the child breathing hard, complaining of pain in the ear or the cough is persistent.
Against flu symptoms in children you can use both means “home made ” and nonprescription drugs . Remember that antibiotics are ineffective in treating influenza. Antibiotics are useful in treating bacterial infections. However, influenza is a viral infection so antibiotics are not helpful.
Basic measures to control or relieve the flu symptoms in children are:
- Rest
- Drinking liquids
- Taking ibuprofen for fever and pain reduction
Do not give aspirin to children or teenagers who have flu-like symptoms, especially when it comes to flu.Do not give cough medicines for children under four years, without consulting the pediatrician.If nasal congestion, use a pump to remove mucus or nasal drops of saline on .