Quick Tips from a Pediatrician in Littleton on How to Prevent Flu

Some parents think that the flu is just a simple stomach bug. However, they should always remember that flu is more dangerous than a typical cold or tummy ache. A September 16 article in CNN.com written by Dr. Jennifer Shu gave 5 different ways that could help protect children from the flu season.

The first way is to ensure that your child gets a flu vaccine. A vaccine lessens the risk of catching the infection, or if the child already has it, shortens the episode or makes the symptoms milder. Another way is to teach your child the proper manners when it comes to coughing and sneezing. The article says, “Flu germs can spread up to 6 feet through coughs and sneezes, so teach children to cover their mouth and nose with a tissue and to throw away the tissue. Make sure to clean their hands afterward!”

Flu season is the most appropriate time to be extra vigilant about cleaning surfaces and reminding your children to wash their hands properly. According to the article, the “usual good health practices still apply during cold and flu season; good nutrition, moderate exercise and adequate rest help optimize the immune system.”

Living a healthy life, therefore, is still one of the most important keys to preventing illnesses. So if your child has a flu, make sure to treat the symptoms immediately by visiting a pediatrician in Littleton and to keep your child as comfortable as possible.

Flu is commonly caused by one of three types of the influenza virus, among which Types A and B account for the annual flu epidemics while Type C only generates sporadic mild illnesses. Flu can spread rather quickly, especially in closed areas like classrooms. If a child inhales small droplets that are coughed or sneezed out by an infected person, there’s a good chance that he or she will get sick as well.

Home remedies and medications prescribed by your pediatrician in Littleton, CO like those at Focus On Kids Pediatrics are some of the different ways to treat the flu. However, the best way to ensure that your child gets well right away is to let him get plenty of rest and drink lots of fluids. The article leaves a note of assurance to parents by saying, “Most healthy kids over 2 years old get better within a few days without any antiviral medicine.”