12/24/2025
Is it the flu?
Influenza (Flu) is a viral illness. It is spread rapidly from person to person via sneezes, coughs, or other droplets. The virus can also live on contaminated surfaces like door handles or countertops — and then when you touch the surfcae (or your toddler inevitably licks the hand rails) you pick up the virus too.
A common cold usually has a low grade fever, a runny nose, and mild coughing — the flu usually feels much sicker, achier, and more miserable than just a cold.
🤒Flu Symptoms
-sudden fever -often high
-chills + body aches
-headache
-sore throat
-dry, hacking cough
-stuffy, runny nose
-some kids may vomit or have some loose stools
‼️When it becomes an emergency
Most people will recover within 1-2 weeks, but seek care immediately if:
-trouble breathing or rapid breathing
-pale, gray, or blue-colored skin, lips or nail beds
-ribs looking like they are pulling in with each breath (retractions)
-chest pain
-muscle pain so severe that your child refuses to walk
-dehydration (no peeing for 8 hours, dry mouth, and no tears when crying)
-Not interacting with you or not alert
-extremely irritable or difficult to console
-Fever in child less than 12 weeks
-Fever lasting 3-4 days
-Was getting better but develops headache, fever, cough, or ear ache, or symptoms worsen
🌡️How to manage at home
âś…Lots of rest!
✅Fluids: the most important! Kids get dehydrated much quicker than adults. Offer small frequent sips of fluids—water, juice, etc, (breastmilk, formula for baby) popsicles are great too! Minimum of 3 bathroom trips every 6-8 hours
âś…Warm fluids (tea, soup) can be soothing and increase flow of nasal mucous helping clear it. Broths are also very hydrating and gut healing!
✅Fever management: treat the child not the number. Goal is keeping them comfortable to drink and not miserable! A fever isn’t necessarily bad (depends on child), but if they are not drinking and staying hydrated because they feel like crap it can be bad.
✅Nasal saline rinse several times a day— improves congestion/snot clearance, decreases symptoms and duration
âś…Cool, humidified air
âś…Honey (not in less than 1)
âś…Magnesium salt baths - reduce muscle aches
âś…Elderberry Syrup - may shorten symptoms
âś…Bee propolis Spray - soothes the throat (not less than 1)
âś…Keep a sick space set up away from siblings and others in the house
✅Antiviral if it’s right for your child/situation
❓ Antiviral meds (Tamifu or Xofluza) don’t eliminate the flu, but can reduce severity and duration of symptoms for some (important for high risk kiddos). Can also reduce complications like pneumonia and others. Started at onset of symptoms, and it’s not for everyone - talk with your doctor for YOUR kiddo!
❌No aspirin
❌No cough medicine
❌antibiotics (aren’t helpful unless your child develops secondary infection)
❌Attend holiday parties/gatherings
❌No honey containing products for less than 1
❌don’t be afraid to give them medicine if they need it for comfort!
❌Give medicine for fever in baby less than 12 weeks. Seek care!
This post is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with your provider for guidance for your child’s specific needs.
