Flu Facts and Treatment

Like most viruses, there isn't a medicine that provides a cure. The best flu treatment is supportive. For muscle aches and fever, give your child a pain reliever such as children's acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Good, old-fashioned bed rest is also recommended (though who feels like getting out of bed anyway?). Also fluids are extremely important, especially for small children who dehydrate quickly. During the worst of the illness, getting fluids into a child is more important than pushing food. Try frozen fruit bars as a way of encouraging him to get extra liquids along with soup or broth, which may ease congestion as well.

• Plenty of rest
• Lots of liquids
• Give appropriate dosage of acetaminophen or ibuprofen to relieve the symptoms of flu.
• Keep children home from school and daycare when they are sick. They will rest better and you will help prevent others from catching their illness.
• If she's old enough, show your child to cover her mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around her from getting sick.