(Keep Kids Safe During Flu Season by Dr. Michael Colli, Chief Medical Officer of Keystone Health and medical director and board certified pediatrician at Keystone Pediatrics, first appeared in the Public Opinion Newspaper in 2012. Click here to read it at www.publicopiniononline.com.)
With kids back to school, another thing that’s just around the corner for parents to prepare for is flu season. The flu virus, or influenza, is a seasonal illness that may begin around September and can last as long as April or May. This virus spreads quickly and is transmitted easily, especially among children. So how can parents and care takers make sure to keep kids healthy this fall and winter?
Prevention
There are simple things to consider to keep your child safe this flu season. Make sure your child is getting plenty of physical activity during the day and enough rest each night. Since the flu is generally transmitted by touching the virus on objects and then touching the eyes, nose or mouth, proper and frequent hand washing is important for prevention. The most important step to take–make sure your child receives a seasonal flu vaccine. While you can never prevent the flu completely, vaccination can greatly reduce the risk of your child getting the flu or developing severe complications. The vaccine is available in a shot form (contains no live virus) for children 6 months and older or by inhaling the flu mist (contains a small amount of live virus) for children older than 2 years. The vaccination does not cause the flu. Those caring for children less than 6 months of age should also be vaccinated.
Got flu?
If your child is sick it may be hard to tell if it’s the flu or something different like a cold. Generally with the flu, your child will have a high fever. Other symptoms can include cough that begins dry but can become productive, headache, fatigue, malaise, congestion and possibly upper respiratory infection. Symptoms unique to children also include gastrointestinal upset, vomiting or diarrhea. It’s important to watch these symptoms closely. Children with weakened immune systems or under the age of 2 years old must be watched particularly close. Children with the flu can also be more susceptible to secondary infections such as pneumonia, sinus infections, and ear infections.
Home Sick
If your child does come down with the flu, be sure to keep them home from school or daycare. Keep your child hydrated with plenty of fluids and use acetaminophen or ibuprofen for fever, aches, and pains if necessary. If your child is lethargic, dehydrated or exhibiting symptoms that are concerning, be sure to call your doctor. You should also contact your physician immediately if your child was getting over their symptoms and has suddenly gotten sicker. This could indicate that your child has developed a secondary infection.
Dr. Michael Colli is the Chief Medical Officer of Keystone Health and medical director and board certified pediatrician at Keystone Pediatrics located at the Cochran Professional Center, 830 Fifth Avenue in Chambersburg.
