How to Take Care of a Kid with the Flu

Babies are prone to flu infections, and you need to take care of your child when they get down with flu. Some of the common symptoms include fever, dry coughs, chills, dehydration, and body aches. Although these symptoms are not easy to manage, managing these may not be simple, there are various ways of taking care of a child with flu.

1. Monitor the baby's temperature

A baby with flu is likely to experience high temperature, especially at night. Be sure to keep checking the baby's temperature and act appropriately. Monitoring the baby's temperature will inform you whether it's high enough for a fever.

The baby's normal baby temperature is about 36.4 but can vary slightly. The temperature for a baby with fever can go to as high as 38C or more. Your baby may have high temperature and may exhibit symptoms like feeling hotter, especially on the forehead, back, and stomach.

2. Hydrate your child

The flu can make your child lose fluids quickly and become dehydrated, for this can lead to severe complications and worsen the condition. To prevent this, increase the amount of fluid that you give to your child.

Kids should stay hydrated with lots of clean fluids to avoid dehydration. To hydrate your child, provide clean water and fresh fruit juices. Although some mothers advise that you should give a sick child popsicles or ice chips, you should avoid this because these irritate the child's throat.

3. Give fruit and vegetable juices

Flu can drain your child's energy, making them feel weak and sluggish. They are also likely to suffer a loss of appetite. Make fresh fruit and vegetable juice and give to your baby these as they contain all the essential nutrients that your child needs to stay healthy and fight the infection.

4. Adequate rest

Although some parents love sending kids to school while sick, this will only make your child's condition worse. Going to school also allows your child to spread the infection to other kids. Instead, allow your child to rest and stay at home and watch television or read a book. Also, let your child sleep adequately; sleep is associated with numerous benefits to kids.

5. Use over counter medications

It is vital to manage your child's symptoms through the use of medicines. Foremost, it is crucial to consult with your doctor on the best drugs to give to your baby. Usually, for fever and body aches, a doctor will prescribe over the counter medicines, but shouldn't be administered to the baby in the proper doses.

 By so doing, you'll prevent overdosing and any drug reactions. To avoid overdosing your kid, use a medicine dropper dispenser that accompanies the medicine. Also, follow the instructions give by the doctor.

6. Curb the spread

If your child is down with flu, you must prevent the infection from spreading to other members of the family. Keep yourself and your family away from your sick child and encourage them to wear a face mask. Also, have your child wash their hands frequently and wipe toys and other items that they come into contact with. Moreover, throw away any used tissue in a covered trash can.

7. Avoid overdressing the child

Most parents bundle their kids with too many clothes when sick, and this is not right, for it may make the baby more uncomfortable. If the room temperature ranges between 70 and 74 degrees Fahrenheit, consider dressing the child lightly. Sweating is not the right way to treat fever.

8. Use a fever reliever when required

Not all types of fever need treatment with medicines. A fever reliever is only necessary when the relievers are causing discomfort to the baby. If you must use one, administer it before bedtime to help the baby sleep better at night. Some drugs like Tylenol or ibuprofen will usually do the trick. But speak to your doctor about the dosage and avoid aspirin, for they lead to other life-threatening conditions.

9. Avoid unproven remedies

Babies are exceptionally delicate, and not all home cures will work well for your child. There are various home remedies for flu, and not all of them are safe. Some of them are not proven, and you should always consult your doctor before usage. Some can do more harm than good. Also, avoid giving a cooling sponge bath to your baby without giving a fever reliever.

Conclusion

Flu can make a child very uncomfortable, and it's your role as a parent to take good care of them. There are various ways of making your child feel better when down with flu. Avoid overdressing the baby, give enough fluids, monitor the baby's temperature, and avoid unproven home remedies. By so doing, your child will feel better, and you'll be happy to see them healthy and active.