Lifestyle and home remedies
- Offer plenty of fluids. Liquids are important to avoid dehydration. Encourage your baby to take in the usual amount of fluids. Extra fluids aren't necessary. ...
- Thin the mucus. Your baby's doctor may recommend saline nose drops to loosen thick nasal mucus. Look for these OTC drops in your local pharmacy.
- Suction your baby's nose. Keep your baby's nasal passages clear with a rubber-bulb syringe. Squeeze the bulb syringe to expel the air. ...
- Moisten the air. Running a cool-water humidifier in your baby's room can ease nasal congestion. Change the water daily and follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning the unit.
What can I give my Baby for the flu?
They can help your baby feel better by making symptoms milder, and they can also help prevent serious complications, like pneumonia. The antiviral drug oseltamivir (trade name Tamiflu) is approved for treating flu in babies as young as 2 weeks, and the CDC recommends it for preventing flu in children as young as 3 months.
How to get rid of the flu in children?
Method 4 Treating The Flu With Medication 1 Get a prescription antiviral drug. There are a number of relatively new antiviral drugs... 2 Refrain from using cold and cough medicine in young children. 3 Use pain relievers for fevers. It is best to allow your child's body to fight off a fever... 4 Consider a flu shot. Talk to your doctor about...
When should I give my Child the flu medicine?
Not all children who come down with the flu will need medicine. But because the flu can be so dangerous for children younger than 2 years old, they are often treated with antiviral drugs. Antivirals work best when started within the first two days of the illness.
What are the treatment options for the flu?
The flu usually doesn't need medical treatment. Sometimes, doctors might prescribe an antiviral medicine for some people who have the flu. This medicine works best if given within the first 2 days of the illness. It can make flu symptoms milder and shorten the illness by a couple of days.
What Can I Give My 8 month old for flu?
Treatments for the flu in babies and toddlersRest. Help your little one get plenty of R&R by letting her nap as often as possible and encouraging lots of quiet activities during the day.Fluids. Offer lots of fluids to prevent dehydration from fever and loss of appetite. ... Pain relievers. ... Antiviral medications.
What is the best treatment for flu in infants?
What's the treatment? If your baby is at least 2 weeks old, your pediatrician may prescribe the antiviral drug oseltamivir (Tamiflu) to prevent or treat the flu. It works best when they take it in the first day or two after they get sick.
Can an 8 month old get the flu?
Although all children younger than 5 years old are considered at higher risk for complications from flu, the highest risk is for those younger than 2 years old, with the highest hospitalization and death rates among infants younger than 6 months old.
How long does the flu last for a baby?
Most children recover from the flu within a week. But they may still feel very tired for as long as 3 to 4 weeks. A cold is usually mild and often goes away after a few days. The flu can cause severe symptoms and lead to problems such as pneumonia and even death.
How can I treat my child's flu at home?
Fighting Kids' Cold & Flu Symptoms: Fever ReliefAs with colds, let your child get plenty of fluids and rest.Keep the room temperature cool (between 70° and 74° F).Dress your child in lightweight pajamas.Encourage your child to drink extra fluids, popsicles, and gelatin to stay hydrated.More items...•
How can I help my baby sleep with the flu?
Tips on how to help baby sleep with a coldGive them a lift. For a baby sleeping with a cold, use extra pillows to raise their head and shoulders as this will help the congestion drain down. ... Make them a nightcap. ... Breathe easy. ... Keep cool. ... Avoid night fever.
Should I give my baby Tamiflu?
It was approved in 1999 for use in children ages 2 weeks old and up. Its side effects are typically mild, so it's considered safe for use. However, your child's doctor may not prescribe it in every case of flu, regardless of its safety.
How do I know if my child's flu is serious?
Your child should be taken in for medical care if he has the following symptoms: Fever that does not respond to fluids, rest and fever-reducing medications. Extreme fatigue. Inconsolable irritability.
How to take care of a sick toddler?
Make sure he rests. Your toddler will be more tired than usual. Try to get him to take naps during the day, plus a long sleep at night. Get him to drink up.
How to help a toddler with a stuffy nose?
Water, juice, yogurt, electrolyte solutions, and chicken soup are all fine choices to keep him hydrated. Warm liquids may even help to unclog a stuffy nose. Bring down the fever. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help. Ask your doctor's office what the correct dosage is for your toddler's weight and how often to give it.
How to help a toddler breathe?
Help him breathe easier at night. When your toddler goes to sleep, put a cool-mist humidifier in his room. The moisture from the vapor helps relieve his stuffy nose.
Is it safe to give a child a cold medicine?
A Drug to Treat the Flu? Steer clear of over-the-counter cold and flu medicine -- they aren't safe for children under age 4. The flu is caused by a virus, so antibiotics, which fight bacteria, won't do any good. But a drug called oseltamivir ( Tamiflu) works against the flu virus, and it's safe to give to toddlers.
Is it safe to give a toddler tamiflu?
But a drug called oseltamivir ( Tamiflu) works against the flu virus, and it's safe to give to toddlers. There are a few drawbacks, though. For one thing, it's only effective if you use it in the first 2 days after your child gets the flu.
What antiviral is approved for children?
Antiviral Drugs Approved for Use in Children. There are four flu antiviral drugs approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in the United States which are recommended by CDC for use in children this flu season: Oseltamivir (available as a generic version or under the trade name Tamiflu®) is approved for treatment ...
What is the best antiviral for the flu?
There are four flu antiviral drugs approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in the United States which are recommended by CDC for use in children this flu season: 1 Oseltamivir (available as a generic version or under the trade name Tamiflu®) is approved for treatment of flu in children 2 weeks old or older. Oral oseltamivir comes in the form of pills and liquid. Although not part of the FDA-approved indications, use of oral oseltamivir for treatment of flu in infants younger than 14 days old. 2 Zanamivir (trade name Relenza®) is approved for treatment of flu in children 7 years and older. It is not recommended for use in children with underlying respiratory disease, including those with asthma and other chronic lung diseases. Inhaled zanamivir is given via a special inhaler (Diskhaler®). 3 Peramivir (trade name Rapivab®) is given intravenously and recommended for use in children 2 years and older. 4 Baloxavir (trade name Xofluza®) is a pill that is given as a single dose by mouth and is approved for early outpatient treatment of children with flu who are aged 12 years and older.
How long does it take for antiviral medication to work?
Antiviral drugs work best if started soon after getting sick (within two days of symptoms starting). Early treatment of flu with antiviral drugs also has been shown to reduce the incidence of ear infections and the need for antibiotic treatment in children between 1 and 12 years old.
How do antiviral drugs work for children?
Antiviral drugs for children come in the form of pills, liquid, inhaled powder, or intravenous solution. They fight flu by keeping flu viruses from reproducing in the body. Antiviral drugs must be prescribed by a health care provider — they are not available over-the-counter. For treatment, flu antiviral drugs should ideally be started within 2 ...
How long after getting sick can you start antiviral treatment?
For treatment, flu antiviral drugs should ideally be started within 2 days after becoming sick, but children who are at high risk for flu complications or who are hospitalized can still benefit when antiviral treatment is started 2 or more days after becoming sick.
What are the symptoms of the flu in children?
Flu signs and symptoms include fever, headache, extreme tiredness, dry cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose and muscle aches.
Can you give zanamivir to children?
It is not recommended for use in children with underlying respiratory disease, including those with asthma and other chronic lung diseases. Inhaled zanamivir is given via a special inhaler (Diskhaler®). Peramivir (trade name Rapivab®) is given intravenously and recommended for use in children 2 years and older.
How to help a child with cold and flu?
Offer plenty of fluids. Keep your child hydrated to help reduce cold and flu symptoms and make them feel better. Fevers can result in dehydration. Your child may not feel as thirsty as they normally would, and they may be uncomfortable when drinking, so it’s important to encourage them to drink plenty of fluids.
When to give OTC cold medicine to toddler?
Know what to give and when. recommends against children under age 2 taking over-the-counter (OTC) cold and cough medications. If your child has a fever or symptoms of a cold, and is under age 2 , call their pediatrician to determine first if you need to give any medication, and how much you need to administer.
How to clear a stuffy nose without medication?
Fortunately, there are several easy ways to clear up a stuffy nose without medication. Use a cool-mist humidifier in your child’s room. This will help break up mucus.
What to do after a child gets sick?
Wash all surfaces they came into contact with before or during their sickness. Encourage your children and your other family members to wash their hands regularly to keep future germs at bay.
What is the fever of a 3 month old?
has a fever greater than 101°F (38°C) for more than two days, or a fever of 104°F (40°C) or higher for any amount of time. has a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher and is under 3 months old. has a fever that doesn’t get better after taking acetaminophen or ibuprofen. seems unusually drowsy or lethargic.
How to get rid of mold in humidifier?
This will help break up mucus. Be sure to carefully clean the humidifier between uses to keep mold from developing in the machine. Another option is using a saline nasal spray or drops, which makes thin mucus easier to blow out or remove with a bulb syringe. This is especially helpful before feeding and bedtime.
How old should a child be to take ibuprofen?
If your child is over 6 months old, you may also give ibuprofen to help control fever or pain. You may find it difficult to measure out medications in the cups that are included with the bottle. If you’re concerned about using the provided measuring cup, talk to your local pharmacist.
What to do if your child has the flu?
If your child gets the flu: Offer plenty of liquids. Fever and appetite loss are common with the flu, and can lead to dehydration. Encourage your child to rest in bed or on the couch with a supply of magazines, books, quiet music, and perhaps a favorite movie.
How to get rid of a cough in a baby?
Do not give honey to children under 12 months old. For babies: Put a few drops of saline (saltwater) into the nose, then gently suction the mucus out with a bulb syringe.
How to help a kid with a runny nose?
Do not give these medicines to children under 6 years old because they can cause bad reactions. Running a cool-mist humidifier can help relieve coughs and runny or stuffy noses. Clean it after each use or at least once a day.
What to do when your child has the flu?
5. Comfort your child. The most important thing you may be able to do for your child is to comfort her. It is pretty miserable having the flu, and sometimes the best thing a parent can do is to understand, let your child know you understand how miserable she is, and reassure her that she will feel better soon.
What are the complications of the flu in children?
These complications can include: Infections of the sinuses or ears. Inflections of the lungs, like bronchitis and pneumonia.
How is the flu spread?
Flu is spread by droplets released when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks, or breathes. Less commonly, the flu can be spread by touching a surface that was recently touched by someone with the virus. Learn how to treat the flu virus in children so you can keep your children healthy during flu season. Steps.
How much water should an older child drink a day?
These fluids can be water, juices, electrolyte beverages like Pedialyte, and clear chicken or vegetable broths. At a minimum, try to get your older child to drink 8 eight ounce glasses of water or other liquid a day.
How old can a baby be to take acetaminophen?
You can give acetaminophen to babies under six months old, but contact your doctor if you are not sure about how much to give. Don't give aspirin to any child under the age of 19 with the flu. Alternatively, you can bathe your child in lukewarm water to bring the fever down and make your child more comfortable.
How to get rid of nasal secretions in newborn?
Pour the solution into a clean spray bottle. Spray one or two squirts into each nostril as needed. For infants and small children, wait two to three minutes. Then, tilt the baby’s head back slightly and use the soft, rubber-bulb syringe to gently remove nasal secretions. Just squeeze about ¼ of the air out of the bulb.
How to make iodine sting less?
If you wish, you can also add ½ teaspoon of baking soda and mix well. The baking soda will adjust the pH of the solution to make it less likely to sting a sore nose. Pour the solution into a clean spray bottle.
Can a baby have a cold and a flu?
But in general, flu symptoms are more severe than just a runny nose and sore throat. Another major difference: a cold comes on gradually, while the flu tends to hit suddenly. Some symptoms you may notice in your baby: Fever. Aches.
Can you give a baby acetaminophen?
Check with your pediatrician before you give them anything to lower their temperature. Your doctor may recommend infant acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Don't use aspirin because it can cause a rare but life-threatening liver disorder called Reye's syndrome.
Is the flu bigger than a cold?
When the flu season hits, it's time to get smart about keeping your baby healthy. The flu is a much bigger deal than a cold. Learn how to prevent the virus from reaching your little one, and find out what to do if they get sick.
What is the best medicine for fever in children?
For treatment of fever or pain in children, consider giving your child infants' or children's over-the-counter fever and pain medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others). These are safer alternatives to aspirin.
How to help an older baby with cold?
To make your baby as comfortable as possible, try some of these suggestions: Offer plenty of fluids. Liquids are important to avoid dehydration. Formula or breast milk is the best choice. Encourage your baby to take in the usual amount of fluids.
How to get mucus out of a baby's nose?
Release the bulb, holding it in place while it suctions the mucus from your baby's nose. Remove the syringe from your baby's nostril and empty the contents onto a tissue by squeezing the bulb rapidly while holding the tip down. Repeat as often as needed for each nostril. Clean the bulb syringe with soap and water.
How to keep a baby's nose clear?
If you're breastfeeding your baby, keep it up. Breast milk offers extra protection from cold-causing germs. Suction your baby's nose. Keep your baby's nasal passages clear with a rubber-bulb syringe. Squeeze the bulb syringe to expel the air.
How old can a baby be to take ibuprofen?
For children younger than 3 months old, don't give acetaminophen until your baby has been seen by a doctor. Don't give ibuprofen to a child younger than 6 months old or to children who are vomiting constantly or are dehydrated. Use these medications for the shortest time.
How long does it take for a cold to go away?
There's no cure for the common cold. Most cases of the common cold get better without treatment, usually within a week to 10 days, but a cough may linger for a week or more. Antibiotics don't work against cold viruses.
When to call a doctor for a baby?
If your baby is younger than 3 months of age, call his or her doctor early in the illness. In newborns, it's especially important to make sure that a more serious illness isn't present, especially if your baby has a fever.
What flu symptoms do infants get?
The first sign of illness in many infants is poor feeding. Babies who are having trouble breathing can’t eat. Babies who are weak or in pain don’t eat, either. So, during flu season, pay close attention to how well your baby is nursing or drinking their bottles.
Which flu treatments are helpful for infants?
When it comes to treating an infant with the flu, you should communicate often with your healthcare provider. Follow their advice carefully.
When should I call the doctor?
Any baby younger than 3 months old who gets a fever should see a medical provider right away. These babies might seem OK, but their illness can become severe quickly.
When should I take my infant to the hospital?
There are times when babies need medical attention without delay. During office hours, it can help to call your child’s medical provider first. But if you can’t get in touch with anyone, or if you’re still concerned, take your baby to the hospital.
How do I keep my infant from getting the flu?
If your baby is 6 months or older during flu season, they should get a flu vaccine. The flu vaccine is safe and effective in babies. The first time your baby gets a flu shot, they will need 2 doses, 1 month apart.
The bottom line
Influenza can be scary, especially when an infant gets sick. Unfortunately, our best protection against the flu — getting a flu shot — isn’t an option for our youngest babies.
Antiviral Drugs
Benefits from Antiviral Treatment of Influenza
- Flu antiviral drugs can make flu symptoms milder and can shorten duration of illness. Antiviral drugs work best if started soon after getting sick (within two days of symptoms starting). Early treatment of flu with antiviral drugs also has been shown to reduce the incidence of ear infections and the need for antibiotic treatment in children between 1 and 12 years old. Treatment with anti…
Antiviral Drugs Approved For Use in Children
- There are four flu antiviral drugs approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in the United States which are recommended by CDC for use in children this flu season: 1. Oseltamivir(available as a generic version or under the trade name Tamiflu®) is approved for treatment of flu in children 2 weeks old or older. Oral oseltamivir ...
Side Effects of Antiviral Drugs
- Side effects vary for each medication. The most common side effects for oseltamivir are nausea and vomiting. Zanamivir can cause difficulty breathing in people with underlying lung disease and peramivir can cause diarrhea. Other less common side effects also have been reported. Your health care provider can give you more information about these drugs or you can check the Foo…
If Your Child Gets Sick with Flu
- Your child’s health care provider can help decide whether your child should take antiviral drugs if they become sick with flu this season. Flu signs and symptoms include fever, headache, extreme tiredness, dry cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose and muscle aches. It’s important to note that some children with flu will not have a fever. For more information about influenza antiviral d…