How to Treat Flu in Toddlers

The term "flu" is generally used to describe illnesses ranging from a severe cold to a stomach virus. However, a true case of the flu (influenza) needs to be treated as a very serious illness that takes the lives of tens of thousands of primarily young--or old--people, as well as those with compromised immune systems. Unlike the stomach flu, influenza primarily targets the respiratory system. Since the flu is caused by a virus, antibiotics will not be of any help. Following these steps will help your child feel better while he recovers.

Things You'll Need

• Thermometer
• Acetaminophen
• Ibuprofen
• Water
• Natural fruit juices
• Frozen fruit bars
• Soups and broths
• Humidifier or vaporizer
• Saline drops or spray
• Nasal aspirator
• Medicated menthol ointment

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Determine if your toddler has the flu caused by the influenza virus rather than the similar symptoms of a cough or cold. If your toddler has a temperature over 101 degrees Fahrenheit (38.3 degrees Celcius), be alert. If he also complains of a headache, general aches, chills, a runny nose, and/or dry cough during the typical months of flu season (October through February), chances are he has the flu. A toddler with the flu can also have a poor appetite, sore throat, swollen glands, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and vomiting. If your toddler experiences congestion or coughing prior to the onset of a fever, however, chances are he has come down with a cold.

• 2

  Limit your toddler's opportunities for activity and encourage rest with his favorite blanket, stuffed toy or DVD. Even if you cannot get him or her to sleep, the rest alone is important. Elevate the head of the crib or bed by raising the crib legs or placing something under the mattress. This will help reduce nasal congestion and secretion.

• 3

  Limit medication given to your toddler until receiving advice from a physician. Medication is not necessary for temperatures under 102 degrees Fahrenheit (taken orally), and it should be taken as little as possible. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be given for fever relief as well as reducing the general aches. Read the label carefully to determine the proper dosage. Call the doctor if the fever does not respond or lasts longer than 24 hours. Toddlers should never be given aspirin as it is directly linked to Reyes Syndrome.

• 4

  Encourage your toddler to drink plenty of water and natural fruit juices without added sweetener. Frozen fruit bars, soups and broths are good additional sources of liquids. Hot liquids may help to ease congestion as well.

• 5

  Keep the air moist with a humidifier or vaporizer. This will reduce respiratory irritation, loosen mucus, ease coughing, and make your toddler more comfortable. A warm bath provides relief. Running a warm shower while he remains in the bathroom is a good idea.

• 6

  Use saline drops or spray to loosen the nasal secretions congesting the breathing passages.

• 7

  Remove mucus from your toddler's nose with a nasal aspirator to help reduce congestion, especially close to bed time.

• 8

  Rub some medicated menthol ointment such as a vapor rub on your toddler's chest and under his nose before bed time to relieve night time congestion. Or put the chest rub on his feet and cover them with socks. This will diffuse the vapors so they ease the congestion without being overpowering.

• 9

  Provide as much nutritious food as your toddler can handle. While he or she likely does not have much of an appetite, food provides the fuel the body needs to recover.