Flu season has officially hit. We have had many parents ask questions about keeping their little ones well and what flu symptoms can be. We have answers to your questions!
What is The Flu?
The flu is known as the influenza virus, an intense infectious respiratory virus commonly transmittable in the fall and winter months. The symptoms of this virus can consist of the following:
- Sore Throat
- Nasal or Chest Congestion
- Body aches
These symptoms may or may not be present in every child that contracts this virus. Young children, especially those with a compromised immune system, are at a higher risk of contracting this virus.
How is The Flu Treated?
The flu is typically first detected by a flu test, a nasal swab test. You will find most of the flu tests to be rapid flu tests, which means your child can get their results quickly when tested.
Healthcare providers typically treat your child with an antiviral drug and suggest over-the-counter medications. Those medications can also reduce common infections from the flu, such as ear, sinus, or other joint conditions.
How To Help Prevent The Flu?
Flu season is in full swing now because it is typically more common in the year’s colder months (fall and winter). The different strains of the influenza virus that are going around, unfortunately, can be easily transmissible. Children and adults can be at risk for contracting this virus.
There are a few safe practices that parents can take to reduce their children to prevent the flu:
- Staying home from school or sports when you or your child is feeling under the weather
- Practicing good hygiene and washing hands often
- Getting the flu vaccine
Choose KidsStreet Urgent Care
Let KidsStreet Urgent Care take care of your little ones when they are under the weather! We accept most-not all, major insurance plans and Medicaid. We are open late 7 days a week with pediatric-specific healthcare providers.
We offer online registration so you can have reduced in-clinic wait times. This allows you and your child to wait in the comfort of your home. When it is time to come into the clinic, you will have a wait in the waiting room. This allows our staff to finish any necessary paperwork before you are called back.