Key Information for Your Child's Stay
The flu, or influenza, is a common viral illness that people of all ages can get. But young children who get the flu have a higher risk of complications. Children in the hospital are especially at risk of developing a serious illness if they get the flu. See below for symptoms to look for and ways to prevent the flu.
Flu symptoms usually happen suddenly and can include any of the following for children:
Seek emergency care or tell your child’s nurse if your child shows the following symptoms:
It’s usually enough to rest and drink plenty of fluids to treat the flu. Because the flu is a virus, there is no medicine to get rid of it completely—but some medicines can help with symptoms. Ask your doctor about giving your child medicine to relieve fever, aches and pain. Prescription medicines called antivirals can ease symptoms and shorten the amount of time your child is sick. Antivirals can also reduce the risk of flu complications like pneumonia.
The best way to prevent the flu is to get your child a flu vaccine every year. This is important because protection from the vaccine wears off over time. And since the flu virus changes, vaccines change each year to give the best protection. It’s best to get vaccinated by the end of October.
Follow these tips to help your child avoid getting sick or spreading illness during flu season:
All adults and children over 6 months need a flu vaccine. If your child has a long-term health condition, it’s especially important to get vaccinated. Make sure siblings, parents, caregivers and any other people in your child’s life are vaccinated as well.
When it comes to over-the-counter medicine to relieve fever, aches and pains, remember:
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