The Influenza virus is a common virus that usually cycles annually, typically between October and March. The flu virus can cause the following symptoms:
- Cough
- Fever
- Nasal congestion
- Headaches
- Body aches
- Vomiting and abdominal pain
- Fatigue
If your child has had symptoms of flu, you can bring them to our office for a flu test. If your child tests positive for flu and has been sick for less than 2 days, Tamiflu is an option. Tamiflu is an anti-viral medication that can fight the flu virus, however it is most effective in the first 24-48 hours. It will not help your child immediately, however it may shorten the duration of your child’s illness. You can help treat your child supportively by giving Tylenol and Motrin, and keeping your child hydrated.
It is important to consider getting your child vaccinated annually against the flu vaccine. The flu vaccine is approved for children older than 6 months of age. The flu vaccine injection is a killed vaccine. The nasal spray is a live vaccine and is not recommended for children with asthma or are immunocompromised. It is especially important to consider vaccinating your child if they are at risk for developing serious complications from the influenza virus. These risk factors include children that were born prematurely, and child with congenital heart defects, asthma, or are immunocompromised.
Please refer to the CDC website for more information on the flu vaccine.