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Influenza, or flu as it is better known, is similar to a cold but the symptoms are more severe. As well as a runny
nose, sore throat and a cough, flu can bring on a fever, headaches, vomiting and diarrhoea. Your baby might be shivery and
refusing to feed. Because it is caused by a virus, flu needs to run its course and can't be treated.
There are things which you can do to help you child
- The best form of treatment is lots of rest and plenty of fluids
- A couple of drops of menthol, eucalyptus or olbus oil placed near the child’s bed on a tissue or in a vaporiser
may help them to sleep.
- Help keep their airways clear by wiping their nose gently every so often.
- If your baby has a fever there are various infant painkillers on the market such as Calpol but always read the label to
ensure that they are suitable for your child
- Always be mindful if your child develops a rash, it could be a sign of another illness such as German measles, mumps or
meningitis so if you see a rash always have it checked out by a medical professional straight away.
- Placing a pillow under your child’s mattress, can raise the head and help them breath
- Tale your child in to the bathroom and run the shower, the steam will help to clear their air ways
Warning: call the doctor if you
- notice a rash
- feel the cough has worsened or your child is wheezing or gasping.
- toddler's fever reaches 103 degrees Fahrenheit
- your toddler takes a turn for the worse instead of starting to improve after three to five days, or if their cold symptoms
last for more than 14 days.
- think they are especially tired or listless.
- or you are in any way concerned about your child take them straight to see a doctor
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