As the holiday season draws near, we all must keep in mind that the flu doesn’t take time off—especially when it comes to children.
If you and/or your child have not already received a flu vaccination, we strongly recommend that you do so as soon as possible. The CDC reports that children aged 0-4 years are the most likely to contract the flu, due to their still-developing immune systems, which leave them more susceptible to viral illnesses.
Any viral illness can spread quickly, especially in a daycare/school setting. In addition, it has been estimated that each infected person spreads the flu to one to two others, making family members or other caregivers especially susceptible.
If someone is diagnosed with the flu, it will typically last five to seven days. A fever (usually running in the 100°F to 103°F range) is one of the common symptoms to keep an eye on.
Protection for the Family
If a child has contracted the flu, try to limit their exposure to other family members through:
- Attempt to limit time spent with siblings inside the house.
- Designating a primary caregiver. This may not always be feasible, but having one person in the home dealing with a sick child will limit others’ exposure.
- Wear a mask to further cut down on exposure. Any immunocompromised family member(s), of any age, should be wearing a mask both in and outside of the home.
- Using good hand hygiene. Coughing into the shoulder or the arm, rather than the hand, is extremely important, as is frequently washing our hands (using soap and water for at least 20 seconds and drying thoroughly).
Note too that even if a fever breaks, it can return. This “fever holiday” can be surprising and concerning, but in most cases, you do not need to be alarmed—unless:
- The returning fever, or any fever, is higher than 103°F for more than four or five days, in which case you should seek medical assistance.
- The new fever is accompanied by an earache, which may indicate the development of an ear infection or pneumonia; make a return visit to your child’s physician.
My final piece of advice: as much as you may have been looking forward to a holiday party, trip to see Santa, or religious service, if someone in your household has the flu, it may be a better idea to stay home. After all, your and your family’s health should always come first.
Dr. Sarah Seaforth is a board-certified pediatrician with Scarsdale Medical Group. To make an appointment, call 914-989-1111.