Your child has caught the flu and now you're not feeling too sure about what to do next. Unfortunately, even if they have received a flu shot, it's still possible for them to get the flu. Here's a guide on a few things that you can do help them get through it.
- Pick them up from school or daycare as soon as you can. This will help to prevent spreading the flu to others and to get plenty of rest. Keep your child at home for at least 24 hours after their fever is gone. This means at least a whole day without a fever while being off of fever-reducing medications.
- Talk to your doctor if your child is under 5 or has a health condition. In some cases, your doctor may suggest certain medications for your child to lower their risk of getting very sick.
- Give them the right medication for their symptoms, like a pain reliever for body aches and fever. Do not give over-the-counter cough medications to children under the age of 6. Keep in mind that these medications treat the symptoms of the flu, not the flu itself. Ask your pharmacist or doctor for the right medication and dosage for your child and other strategies to help them recover.
- Make sure they drink lots of fluids to stay hydrated. Keep a glass of water by their bed to remind them to drink when you're not around.
- Show them how to cover their nose and mouth with a tissue or their elbow if they need to sneeze or cough.
- Let them get plenty of rest. Make sure they're comfortable – having a favourite toy nearby may help.
- Remind them to wash their hands each time with soap and water to help prevent spreading the flu.
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