02/03/2025
Let's talk the FLU!
Influenza cases have increased significantly over the past week in North Texas. We encourage all families to take preventative measures to protect their children over the next couple of months. Flu symptoms can range from mild to severe. Here are common symptoms we are seeing:
▪Fever and/or chills
▪Cough
▪Sore throat
▪Headache
▪Body aches
▪Nasal congestion or runny nose
▪Vomiting and diarrhea
▪A lot of fatigue
Prevention tips:
▪Flu vaccinations can limit serious complications from the flu
▪Hand hygiene. Washing hands frequently with soap and water for 20 seconds,
especially before mealtimes.
▪Avoid close contact with people who are sick
▪Stay home if you are not feeling well or have had fever within the past 24 hours.
Kids are considered contagious with fevers until they are fever free without a fever
reducer for 24 hours. Fever is considered a temperature above 100.4.
▪Avoid touching your nose, eyes, mouth
Managing symptoms at home:
▪Antiviral medications, like Tamiflu, are not routinely prescribed for children
▪Tylenol and Motrin as-needed
▪Saline nasal drops/sprays
▪Cool mist humidifier
▪Maintaining hydration with popsicles, clear liquids, electrolyte drinks
▪Honey can help soothe the throat for children over 1 year of age
When to seek medical attention:
▪Fever more than 4 days
▪Infants under 2 months of age need to be evaluated immediately if fever is noted.
▪Signs of respiratory distress
▪Signs of dehydration
▪Signs of respiratory distress:
▪Increased number of breaths per minute
▪Increased heart rate
▪Bluish color around the mouth, on the lips, or on the fingernails
▪Grunting sounds
▪Nose flaring
▪Chest appears to sink in with each breath
▪Head bobbing when breathing in
▪Change in alertness
Signs of dehydration:
▪Not producing urine every 8 hours
▪Not producing tears when crying and eyes appear sunken
▪In infants, the soft spot on top of their heads looks sunken
▪Sleepy and unresponsive
