How to Protect Your Children During Flu Season:

Flu season often brings sniffles, coughs, and missed school days, but for children, influenza can sometimes lead to more serious illness. Parents play a key role in keeping kids safe, healthy, and comfortable during these months. With the right prevention strategies, you can reduce the risk of flu and help your child recover more quickly if they do get sick.

Why Flu Season Matters for Children:

• Children under 5, especially under 2, are at higher risk of flu-related complications.
• The flu can cause dehydration, ear infections, pneumonia, or in some cases, hospitalization.
• Even healthy older children can spread flu rapidly at school and daycare.

5 Ways to Protect Your Child:

1. Get the Flu Vaccine:

• The flu shot is the best defense against influenza.
• Recommended yearly for children 6 months and older.
• It not only protects your child but also helps prevent spread to siblings, grandparents, and others at risk.

2. Practice Good Hand Hygiene:

• Teach your child to wash hands with soap and water for 20 seconds especially before eating and after coughing, sneezing, or using the bathroom.
• Carry hand sanitizer for situations where soap isn’t available.

3. Encourage Healthy Habits:

• Adequate sleep, regular exercise, and a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables all boost the immune system.
• Hydration is key so offer water frequently throughout the day.

4. Limit Germ Exposure:

• Remind kids not to share drinks, utensils, or personal items at school or daycare.
• Encourage covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow instead of hands.
• If your child is sick, keep them home until fever-free for at least 24 hours without
  medication.

5. Know When to Call the Pediatrician:

Seek medical care if your child has:

• Trouble breathing or rapid breathing
• Severe muscle aches or dehydration (no urination for 8+ hours, very dry mouth)
• Persistent high fever or worsening symptoms after initial improvement

Comforting a Sick Child at Home:

• Offer plenty of fluids like water or electrolyte solutions.
• Provide rest in a calm, cozy environment.
• Use a cool-mist humidifier to ease congestion. Some saline in the nose with suctioning.
• Consult your pediatrician before giving over-the-counter medicines and never give aspirin to children.

Flu season can be stressful for families, but with vaccination, healthy routines, and good hygiene, parents can significantly reduce their child’s risk of illness. Staying alert to warning signs and acting quickly when needed ensures your child gets the right care at the right time and can help the whole family stay healthier through flu season.

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