Flu in children is a frequent concern for parents, especially when school starts, a time when these diseases have a high incidence. It is normal for children to have 6 to 8 episodes of flu a year, which can mean that our little ones spend much of the year with a runny nose.
I leave some ideas that can help to better understand the flu phenomenon and how to treat it in the best way.
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What is the flu?
The common cold (flu/cold) is an acute viral infection of the upper respiratory tract in which the main symptoms are a runny nose and nasal obstruction.
General (systemic) symptoms such as headache, muscle aches, and fever are absent or very mild.
In rare cases, it may present with red eyes, abdominal pain, vomiting, or diarrhea.
Most children recover in 3 to 7 days, but in some cases complications may arise. ________________________________________
What questions might your pediatrician ask you?
When you see your pediatrician, he or she will likely ask:
1. How old is the patient?
2. How long have the symptoms been going on?
3. What are the characteristics of the fever?
4. What is the nasal discharge like?
5. What is the cough like?
6. What does your child look like? (Appearance is key because it could indicate whether or not your child looks very upset!)
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When should I make an urgent visit to the doctor?
If your child doesn't look well or seems to have something serious (like he or she is very sick or "toxic").
When should I make an urgent visit for a scheduled appointment?
• If the flu persists for more than 2 weeks.
• If the fever is over 99-100.4F for more than 24 hours.
• If the nasal discharge is purulent for more than 2 days.
• If you have a persistent cough for more than 24 hours, especially if you hear wheezing in the chest or have difficulty breathing.
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Treatment for an uncomplicated case of flu
Treatment for the flu is supportive, with a minimum of medications; however, the possibility of complications and the need for more urgent measures should not be overlooked.
For babies under 6 months:
Use saline solution to clean the nasal passages before each meal or at bedtime
1. Aspirate nasal secretions if necessary.
2. Control fever or discomfort with acetaminophen
3. Raise the mattress slightly to help the child breathe better.
4. Maintain oral hydration to prevent dehydration and keep secretions less thick.
For children older than 6 months:
1. Maintain good hydration.
Control fever or discomfort with acetaminophen or ibuprofen
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Antibiotics for the flu?
Studies show that antibiotics are not effective against the flu, which is caused by a virus. Unnecessary use can cause adverse effects, so most pediatricians do not recommend them for treating uncomplicated flu.
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Preventive Measures to Avoid the Flu
The flu is easily transmitted through respiratory droplets (when someone coughs or sneezes) and through contact with surfaces contaminated with secretions from sick children.
To prevent the spread:
1. Do not take the child to school during the 5 to 7 days of the acute period of the flu.
2. Wash hands frequently.
3. Wear a face mask in case of close contact with young children or older adults.
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Antihistamines and decongestants?
The use of antihistamines, decongestants, or combinations of both is not recommended to treat the flu in children. They do not adequately relieve nasal congestion or secretions, and can have adverse effects.
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Antibiotics for the flu?
Studies show that antibiotics are not effective against the flu, which is caused by a virus and not a bacteria. Unnecessary use of antibiotics can cause adverse effects, so most pediatricians do not recommend them for the treatment of uncomplicated flu.
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Preventive Measures to Avoid the Flu
1. Do not take your child to school during the 5 to 7 days of the acute period of the flu.
2. Wash your hands frequently.
3. Wear a face mask in case of close contact with small children or older adults.
4. Don't forget the vaccine! The flu vaccine (annual influenza) is one of the most effective measures to prevent complications of common flu symptoms.