The influenza virus is the infectious respiratory infection that causes influenza, also referred to as the flu. All ages, including children, are affected. When an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, respiratory droplets can readily spread the flu from one person to another. There are a few crucial steps to take in order to aid youngsters in fighting the flu. Here are some suggestions for helping them battle the flu:
Encourage proper hand hygiene: Teach your child to wash their hands frequently with soap and water, especially before meals and after using the restroom. If soap and water are unavailable, they can use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser.
Promote respiratory etiquette: Teach your child to cover their mouth and nose with a tissue or their elbow when coughing or sneezing. This helps prevent the spread of flu germs to others.
Ensure adequate rest: Make sure your child gets plenty of rest and sleep. Sufficient rest helps their body recover and boosts their immune system.
Offer plenty of fluids: Encourage your child to drink plenty of fluids, such as water, clear soups, and fruit juices. Staying hydrated helps the body fight off infections.
Maintain a balanced diet: Foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins should all be included in your child’s diet to make it nutritious. A nutritious diet strengthens their defences and speeds healing.
Administer prescribed medications: If your child’s doctor has prescribed antiviral medications, ensure they take them as directed. These medications can help shorten the duration of flu symptoms and reduce their severity.
Keep them comfortable: Use fever-reducing medications, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, to alleviate any discomfort caused by fever or body aches. Follow the recommended dosage for your child’s age and consult with a healthcare professional if necessary.
Limit exposure to others: Keep your child at home and away from school or other crowded places until they have fully recovered. This helps prevent the spread of the flu to others.
Maintain a clean environment: Regularly clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that your child frequently touches, such as toys, doorknobs, and light switches. This reduces the risk of reinfection.
Seek medical attention when necessary: If your child’s symptoms worsen, they have difficulty breathing, or they develop complications, consult their healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.
Remember, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional for specific advice tailored to your child’s condition and age.
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Causes of flu in children:
Influenza is an infectious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. It affects people of all ages, including children. The flu can spread easily from person to person through respiratory droplets when an infected individual coughs, sneezes, or talks. Here are some causes of flu in children:
Influenza viruses: The flu is primarily caused by influenza viruses, which are categorized into different types (A, B, and C). Type A and B viruses are responsible for seasonal flu outbreaks.
Direct contact: Children can contract the flu by coming into close contact with someone who has the virus. This can happen through interactions at school, daycare, or other communal settings.
Contaminated surfaces: Flu viruses can survive on surfaces for a short period. If a child touches a contaminated surface and then touches their mouth, nose, or eyes, they may become infected.
Lack of immunity: Children, especially younger ones, may not have developed a strong immune response to influenza viruses. This makes them more susceptible to infection.
Weakened immune system: Certain factors can weaken a child’s immune system, making them more prone to flu. These factors include underlying medical conditions, such as asthma or diabetes, or medications that suppress the immune system.
Crowded environments: Places with a high population density, such as schools, daycare centers, or public transportation, can facilitate the spread of flu among children.
It’s important to note that the flu can cause mild to severe illness in children. Common symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, fatigue, and sometimes vomiting or diarrhea. In severe cases, complications such as pneumonia or worsening of underlying medical conditions can occur.
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Flu symptoms
Flu symptoms in children can manifest in various ways. Here are common flu symptoms specifically observed in children:
Fever: Children with the flu often develop a high temperature above 38°C (100.4°F). Fever is one of the primary signs of influenza and can last for several days.
Cough: Children may experience a dry or productive cough, which can be persistent and bothersome. The cough may worsen during the night.
Sore throat: A sore or scratchy throat is a common symptom of the flu in children. It can make swallowing and eating uncomfortable.
Runny or stuffy nose: Nasal congestion, accompanied by clear or coloured nasal discharge, is common in children with the flu. The nose may be runny or blocked.
Fatigue: Flu can cause extreme tiredness and fatigue in children. They may feel weak and have a lack of energy, leading to increased sleepiness.
Muscle aches: Children may experience muscle aches and body pains, especially in the back, legs, and head. These aches can be mild to severe.
Headache: Flu can cause headaches in children. They may complain of a dull or throbbing pain in their head.
Chills: Children with the flu may experience chills and shivering, even if the environment is not cold. They may feel a sudden sensation of being cold.
Nausea and vomiting: Some children with the flu may experience nausea, vomiting, or stomach discomfort. However, gastrointestinal symptoms are more common in younger children.
Diarrhoea: In certain cases, the flu can cause diarrhoea in children. However, it is less common than respiratory symptoms.
It’s important to note that not all children will experience every symptom, and the severity of symptoms can vary. If you suspect your child has the flu, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and guidance on managing their symptoms.
Also Read: 10 Tips to Get Kids to Eat Fruits
By routinely sanitising and cleaning the school grounds, promoting good hygiene habits, and giving staff and children flu shots, Euroschool creates a safe and healthy learning environment for its kids.
