How to Treat The Flu in Toddlers

Friends of Hermina, almost everyone has experienced flu or colds, including children and toddlers. The immune system of toddlers is still less than optimal, making them vulnerable to various diseases, including flu. In adults or children with flu, several clinical symptoms may appear, such as fever, body aches, cough, runny nose and several other related symptoms. In general, children with flu can recover in less than a week. However, in some children, the flu can develop into a more serious infection that requires hospitalization. To overcome the flu in children can be done by making sure the child gets enough fluids and rest. If he seems uncomfortable, it's best to talk to his doctor about giving him medication to reduce his symptoms. Do not give antibiotics without first consulting your doctor.

Here are some things that can be done at home to relieve flu symptoms suffered by toddlers:

1. Make sure the child always feels comfortable.
2. Set the room temperature so that it is not too cold but also not too stuffy to make breathing easier.
3. Make sure the child is well hydrated. Give breast milk regularly if the child is under 6 months old. If the child is over 6 months old, it can be given drinking water or homemade fruit juice.
4. Allow the child to sleep more.If he's asleep, try not to disturb him so he doesn't get cranky.
5. Lay the child in a prone position, then gently pat his back. Of course, this is done under the full supervision of parents. Make sure his head is able to stand up and support his own neck. Patting a child's back in a prone position can relieve nasal congestion and provide comfort .
6. Elevate the position of the child's head. In children aged 1 year and over, elevating the position of the head while sleeping or resting on the bed can help them breathe more comfortably. Mothers can add a thin towel or pillow to the baby's head when he sleeps with a cold. 6. Bathe the child with warm water so that he can sleep more soundly and help the mucus come out more easily.

Although the flu is one of the common illnesses experienced by toddlers, there are several conditions that make parents need to be alert and immediately consult a doctor, including :

• colds accompanied by cough and fever of more than 39 degrees Celsius in children under 3 months of age, or fever reaching more than 40 degrees Celsius in children over 3 months. Fever lasts more than two days. Watery eyes or eye discharge appear.
• The cough is becoming more severe or is accompanied by rapid breathing; wheezing can be heard when the baby breathes.significant changes in eating or sleeping patterns, frequent drowsiness, or fussiness.
• Infants cry when fed while rubbing or pulling at their ears, and they cry when placed in bed.
• Colds do not improve after 7-10 days.

Toddlers with immature immune systems are at risk for various diseases. As a result, flu in infants with severe symptoms should be avoided.Consult a doctor for appropriate and safe treatment for babies.