How do I know If my child has the FLU?

What do I do  if my child has the FLU?

FLU

• Sudden onset-usually 1 day

• Body aches (can be severe)

• Fever (can be high) and chills

• Extreme fatigue

• Severe cough without sputum

• Possible nasal congestion & sneezing

• Possible nausea, vomiting & diarrhea

• Duration 5 days to 2 weeks

COLD

• Gradual onset-usually 2-3 days

• No body aches

• Rare fever (low grade)

• Mild to no fatigue

• Mild  to moderate cough with occasional sputum

• Probable nasal congestion & sneezing

• Rare nausea, vomiting & diarrhea

• Duration 5-7 days

CARING FOR A CHILD WITH FLU

• Consult your doctor to determine if a visit is necessary (antiviral medication like Tamiflu or Relenza may be prescribed)

• Put your child to bed without activities-fighting off flu virus is taxing on the body

• Try to keep the sick child isolated from other family members

• Try to use separate bathrooms

• Wash hands frequently

• Encourage plenty of clear liquids to ensure hydration

• Do not smoke around a child with the flu

• Use children's Acetaminophen or Tylenol to reduce fever and body aches

• Do NOT use children's aspirin

• Keep the child isolated until the child has no fever for 24 hours without the aid of fever reducing medication

Emergency Signs

• Rapid or labored breathing

• Gray or bluish color

• Not drinking enough liquid

• No urine

• No tears when crying

• Not awakening or interacting

• Irritability (not wanting to be held)

• Skin rash

• Symptoms return after improvement