What Are the Treatments for Type A Influenza in Children?

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, influenza viruses cause two main types of flu in humans; these are type A and type B. The H1N1 or swine flu is a variant of the type A flu. Flu treatment is the same for both type A or B. Treatment is geared toward reducing the time frame of the illness and alleviating symptoms.

Symptoms

• A child with the flu may appear lethargic and have a poor appetite. Other symptoms usually include fever, chills, runny nose, stuffy nose and cough. Some children may also experience a headache, irritated eyes, sore throat, nausea, stomach pain, vomiting and diarrhea.

Considerations

• Caregivers should seek medical treatment if the child has a fever of 103 F or higher or has a fever that lasts more than three days. Other symptoms that warrant medical treatment include wheezing or dehydration. A child may be dehydrated if they are not urinating or if their lips and mouth appear dried out.

Flu Medication

• A physician will typically prescribe Tamiflu to treat the flu virus. This medication is taken over a period of five days to shorten the lifespan of the virus. Children can also be given Tylenol and Motrin to treat fever and muscle aches.

Other Treatments

• Offer the child extra liquids. The Baby Center website recommends broth, soup, frozen fruit bars, juice and water.

Prevention/Solution

• Flu vaccinations are available each year. These shots are recommended annually by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.