Here we go again! It’s the time of year for holiday fun, family time, and, unfortunately in some cases, the flu. If you have a baby joining in the festivities this year, they’re likely to be the center of attention in their adorable holiday best. With that in mind, you’ll want to be sure to take precautions to help them skirt this dreaded sickness.
Because their immune systems haven’t produced antibodies needed to fight the flu virus, children under the age of 2 are at a more heightened risk of becoming very sick and requiring hospitalization from flu than older children and healthy adults. The more we’re exposed to and have to fight disease-causing organisms, the more and longer-lasting antibodies our bodies develop to help keep us healthy.
While most people who get the flu recover in a week or two, it can sometimes cause serious complications and severe illness. During an average season in the U.S., 100-180 children die from influenza. The good news is that there are some steps you can take to protect your little one – and the rest of your family – this flu season.
Fending Off the Flu
The best way to protect yourself and your family from the flu is to get the flu shot. While it can’t prevent you from being exposed to the flu, it can better help you fight off the sickness, get less sick overall, and recover faster if you are exposed and contract the flu.
The influenza vaccine is suitable for anyone 6 months or older, with the rare exception being the small number of individuals who’ve had severe reactions to it in the past. It’s ideal to get the flu shot by the end of October. It takes a couple weeks for antibodies to develop, then the vaccination will continue providing protection when the flu hits its peak, usually between December and February. But, if you or your kids haven’t gotten your shots yet, it’s not too late. The flu season is long and unpredictable, and the sooner you get an injection the sooner you have protection from infection.
What about babies under 6 months who are too young to receive the vaccine? Maternal vaccination during pregnancy provides some protection for your child’s first six months. Breast milk also contains antibodies that can help build babies’ immune systems. Beyond that, others being vaccinated helps to avoid them getting sick and spreading the virus to little ones and other vulnerable individuals.
Spotting Flu Symptoms
If your kids are feeling crummy, how do you know if it’s the flu that’s at fault (despite your best efforts to prevent it) or another sickness? The only way to know for sure is to get tested, but there are some common signs and symptoms.
In babies, look for:
- Cough
- Difficulty breathing
- Drowsiness
- Fever
- Irritability
- Poor feeding
- Runny or stuffy nose
These symptoms can last up to 10 days, which can seem like an eternity for little ones – and you! When symptoms are mild, supportive care at home can help kids feel better while the virus runs its course. This may include lots of fluids, rest, and ibuprofen or acetaminophen for aches.
Check with your family’s pediatrician about the best supportive care options for your baby.
Contact your pediatrician if your child:
- Has a fever (above 100.4ºF) and is under 3 months old
- Starts to show signs of dehydration
(not peeing regularly) - Has a cough that causes trouble breathing
- Refuses to eat or drink anything
These symptoms are more serious and should be addressed in the emergency room:
- Blue lips
- Dehydration/not peeing (fewer than three wet diapers or bathroom trips per day)
- Excessive irritability or sleepiness
- Fast breathing that makes eating/drinking difficult
- Heavy breathing where you can see their ribs
- Vomiting all food and drink
Parenting with the Flu
We all know parents don’t get sick days. So, how can you continue caring for your baby safely if you get the flu? In an ideal world, you could have another adult care for them until you’re feeling better. If this isn’t possible, wash your hands frequently and wear a mask to block the spread of respiratory droplets. Be aware of the side effects of medications you may take to mitigate symptoms. If they cause drowsiness, for example, it’s best to wait until someone else is available to help with baby. You can continue breastfeeding. In fact, you’ll pass along important antibodies. Just try not to breathe, cough, or sneeze on your baby in the process. You could even pump and ask someone else to feed them if you’re comfortable with that approach.
The holidays are full of festive gatherings, but it’s important to have some rules in place to keep your baby safe. Remind everyone who wants to spend time with the baby that it’s important they get the flu shot to protect your family and others who are most at-risk.
Stay up to date on all your little one’s routine immunizations to help keep them healthy as they grow. Your family’s pediatrician can answer any questions you have about the vaccine schedule, safety, and more.
Tips for Flu Prevention
In addition to vaccination, there are several steps you can take to help keep the flu at bay.
- Wash your hands often. Sing songs like the ABCs or Happy Birthday with kids to keep them scrubbing for at least 20 seconds. Hand sanitizer is also an effective option.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
- Regularly clean frequently touched surfaces, such as countertops, light switches, and doorknobs.
- Get plenty of rest.
- Eat nutritious foods and drink plenty of fluids.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Avoid having sick siblings share their germs by making sure they keep their hands washed frequently, don’t cough or sneeze on the baby, and don’t share any toys, utensils, or dishes.
- If you’re sick, stay home until your symptoms have improved and you’ve been fever free for 24 hours (without the use of fever-reducing medication).
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when coughing or sneezing.
