Flu Treatment for Preschoolers

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), preschool-age children, from 2 to 4 years old, have a greater chance of requiring urgent medical treatment due to influenza than older children and adults, who usually only require treatment in cases of underlying medical conditions.

At-Home Care

• Preschool age children who exhibit moderate flu symptoms can be treated at home with over-the-counter medications and plenty of fluids. Rest is also important in to ensure a full recovery.

Prescription Treatment

• Preschool-age children who have severe symptoms of the flu should see a physician in order to begin prescription treatment with antiviral medication, such as Tamiflu or Relenza, within 48 hours of symptoms, according to the CDC.

Returning to School

• The preschooler should not return to school until the fever has been gone for at least 24 hours without the aid of over-the-counter fever reducers.

Vaccination for Preschoolers

• The CDC in 2009 recommended that all children, including preschoolers, over the age of 6 months should get vaccinated against both the seasonal flu and H1N1 virus to avoid getting influenza.

Prevention

• Preschool-age children are more susceptible to spreading the flu, since they are in close contact with each other. Teach your preschooler how to cover her mouth when she coughs or sneezes and to avoid touching her nose or mouth to avoid contracting the flu. Proper hand washing techniques should be taught to preschoolers as well.