Handling Flu in Children: What to Do

Article

Dec 11, 2024

3 mins

Here is some information that may help you the next time your child gets the flu.

When your child gets the flu, it can be a trying time, not only for them, but also for you, as their parent. It’s important that parents are prepared with the knowledge of how to best care for their child during this time. Here is some information that may help you the next time your child gets the flu.

Recognising the Flu in Your Child

Children are particularly susceptible to the flu as their immune systems are still developing and due to their exposure to places like schools and daycare centers. When a child has the flu, they can experience a range of symptoms from mild to severe.

Common symptoms include:

Fever
Cough
Sore throat
Runny or stuffy nose
Muscle or body aches
Headache
Fatigue
Vomiting or diarrhea (more common in children than adults)

If your child displays any of these symptoms, consult a healthcare professional for a more accurate diagnosis. The flu can often be identified based on the symptoms and a physical examination. In some instances, the healthcare provider may perform a quick influenza diagnostic test to confirm the presence of the flu virus.

Caring for a Child with the Flu

When your child has the flu, proper care is key to prevent spreading and to ensure swift recovery. Here’s how you can help them manage their flu symptoms at home.

Encourage plenty of rest. Have them stay in bed and avoid any strenuous activities until they are feeling better.
Keep them hydrated. Make sure they have intake of fluids like water, clear broths, or diluted fruit juices to prevent dehydration. Avoid caffeinated or sugary drinks as they can worsen symptoms.
Consult with your child’s healthcare provider before giving any over-the-counter medications to relieve flu symptoms. Make sure to also follow the recommended dosage.
Maintain a comfortable environment. Keep the room well-ventilated and at a comfortable temperature.
Prior to eating and after touching the nose, ensure to wash hands.
Opt for disposable hand towels instead of handkerchiefs. Educate your child to cover their nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, and to wash their hands immediately after.
Stay away from childcare centers or schools to prevent spreading it to others.
Maintain a healthy diet and adopt a healthy lifestyle.

If your child’s flu symptoms worsen or if they develop complications, seek medical attention immediately.

Preventing the Flu

While there is no surefire way to prevent it altogether, there are ways you can help reduce their risk of contracting it.

One of the best ways would be to get them vaccinated, as the flu virus changes and evolves over time. Consult your doctor to ensure your child receives the appropriate flu vaccine in a timely manner.

Another way you can help them is by building a strong immune system. A strong immune system can help protect them against various infections, including the flu. You can help them strengthen their immune system through a balanced diet and choosing the right formulated growing up milk that is designed to support the immune system, like NANKID OPTIPRO with Immunity Guardians*.

Of course, you should also encourage regular physical activity, adequate sleep, and manage stress levels. If you are ever in doubt, consult with your child’s doctor for advice.

BOILERPLATE:

When it comes to safeguarding children’s immunity, there's only one choice that stands out. NANKID OPTIPRO, with Immunity Guardians* comprising of 2’-FL Oligosaccharide and Probiotic B. lactis is the ideal formulated growing-up milk to support your child's immune system. With the highest levels^ of 2’-FL Oligosaccharide and 100 million+ Probiotic B. lactis, NANKID OPTIPRO helps to strengthen their immune defenses, reducing the risk of infections while promoting healthy growth and development. Make the right choice for your child's immunity - choose NANKID OPTIPRO

*Immunity Guardians refers to 2'-FL Oligosaccharide & Probiotic B. lactis to support immune foundation

^Compared to Key Formulated Milk Powder For Children aged 1-3 years per 100g of milk powder (as of March, 2024)

+Refers to 100 million Probiotic B. lactis per 100g of milk powder

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