What Are the Treatments for Children With Flu?

Influenza, more commonly referred to as the flu, is caused by a highly contagious virus that is passed from person to person by a variety of ways, including through coughing and sneezing. While children tend to be more susceptible to the flu than adults, youngsters are also known to make quicker recoveries when properly treated. You should always consult a pediatrician before administering treatment to an ailing child, but in most instances it it easy to care for a child suffering from influenza in the home.

Home From School

• Keep kids with the flu home from school.

  If a child is exhibiting common symptoms of the flu, such as sneezing, coughing, nasal congestion, vomiting or diarrhea, he should be excused from school for at least two to three days until the virus has run its course and he is no longer contagious to other children. Additionally, the child is more susceptible to other infections while his immune system is being attacked by the flu, so it's important to limit his exposure.

Bed Rest

• Bed rest is essential for kids with influenza.

  Bed rest is essential to a child's recovery. Children should be allowed to sleep as much as needed, as long as they quickly become coherent when awakened.

Fever Reduction Medication

• Children can withstand a fever of 104 degrees.

  Children ordinarily develop a fever when down with the flu. It is not uncommon for children to have fevers as high as 104 degrees without requiring medical attention. Administering the recommended dosage of an over-the-counter acetaminophen medicine will reduce the child's fever and help to relieve any head or body aches she may be experiencing. Never offer a child under the age of 12 aspirin as a means of reducing her fever. According to physicians at the University of Washington, this may lead to Reye's syndrome.

Fluids

• Make sure kids get plenty of fluids.

  To prevent dehydration and malnourishment, provide plenty of fluids to the sick child. Offer juice, water, soda pop, Popsicles or sports drinks. It is not essential that the child eats during this period, as long as he takes in plenty of fluids. If he begins to develop a light appetite, broths or jello are recommended.

Humidifier

• Humidifiers can help kids breath and sleep better.

  Keeping a light-misting humidifier in the child's room can make it more comfortable for her to breath. Nasal congestion and impaired breathing sometimes interrupt needed rest and prolong the recovery process. Using a humidifier to keep the air in her recovery area cool and moist will make it easier for her to rest.