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Symptoms & Conditions > Children's > Flu > |
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Children's Flu |
Children's flu is caused by a virus, but it generally starts more suddenly and severely than a cold. While the symptoms are similar, a child with the flu usually has a higher fever and feels much more achy and uncomfortable. The flu can last a week or longer.
Symptoms of the flu can include:
- Sudden onset of fever (usually above 101°F)
- Body ache
- Headache
- Runny nose
- Extreme tiredness or fatigue
- Dry, hacking cough
If your child is suffering from symptoms of flu, he or she will benefit from tender loving care, over-the-counter medication, and lots of bed rest. Other things that may make your child feel better include:
- Extra fluids
- Light, easy-to-digest meals
- A cool mist vaporizer in the bedroom
- Salt water nose drops and a humidifier
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If your child's symptoms persist, her fever is higher than 102°F, or she has a cough that won't go away, call your child's doctor.
Flu Prevention
Since the flu is a virus that is transmitted from person to person, good hygiene goes a long way toward preventing its spread. If you have a child with the flu, some of these tips may help you prevent its spread to other family members:
- Avoid kissing the infected child on or around the mouth.
- Teach your child to use and dispose of tissues properly.
- Wash your hands before and after caring for your child.
- Wash your child's clothes and toys in hot, soapy water.
- Don't share drinking glasses.
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