The flu
Seasonal influenza (flu) is a common infection that usually starts with the sudden onset of a headache, sore throat, and muscle aches.
What are the symptoms of influenza?
- Fever, chills and shakes, headache, muscle aches, extreme tiredness, dry cough, and sore throat
- Loss of appetite is common
If your child is vomiting or experiencing diarrhea, they may have stomach flu.
How does it spread?
- Direct contact
- Indirect contact with germs from the nose or mouth (on hands, toys, tissues, etc.)
- Droplets transmission (when a child coughs or sneezes and droplets reach other children who are close by)
What can you do as a parent to help your child?
- Offer your child fluids and encourage them to rest.
- Give acetaminophen (such as Tempra®) or ibuprofen for fever.
NOTE: The Canadian Paediatric Society does not recommend giving ibuprofen to babies under 6 months old without first talking to your physician. - Clear nasal congestion with a rubber suction bulb and saline (saltwater) nose drops.
- In older children, offer saltwater for gargling to help ease a sore throat.
- Consult a doctor if symptoms persist or worsen.