Protecting Your Child from the Flu: Frequently Asked Questions

Dr. Joe Donroe is an internist and a pediatrician at Beijing United Family Hospital (BJU). In this article, he answers your burning questions about caring for your sick child.

1. What is the flu? 

The flu, or influenza, is a virus that appears every year during flu season (occurring in the fall and winter months).The influenza virus has several parts that change in composition each year. This means that immunity to the virus one year does not provide immunity for the following year.

The flu is spread through respiratory droplets. When someone with the flu coughs or sneezes, the respiratory droplets can infect other people if they are inhaled or come into contact with the inside of the nose or eye. People are most contagious 1-2 days before and 5-7 days after the symptoms start. 

2. What symptoms will my child with the flu have? 

The symptoms of the flu include fever, chills, muscle aches, headache, and fatigue. Sometimes, children will have a cough, runny, and sore throat, too. Some children may have mild or no symptoms. They are still contagious!

3. Are some children more vulnerable to severe symptoms than others? 

Younger children, those with underlying lung problems such as asthma, and children with immune problems are more likely to experience more severe symptoms.

4. How can I help prevent my child from getting the flu? 

Flu prevention involves simple measures that can be taught, modeled, and reinforced. 

These include: 

• Covering your nose and mouth when coughing;

• Washing your hands frequently with soap and water;

• Avoiding very crowded areas and areas where sick people tend to be;

• Avoiding touching your mouth/nose/eyes;

• Getting the influenza vaccine.  

5. Should my child get the influenza vaccine? 

Yes! The vaccine is recommended for anyone over the age of 6 months with rare exception.

6. How will the doctor diagnose the flu? 

The diagnosis of the flu is made based on the identification of typical symptoms. If there is uncertainty, a sample of mucus is taken from the child’s nose. Blood tests are rarely needed.

7. Can I give my child medicine to treat the flu? 

The primary treatment is rest and plenty of fluids. Honey may be helpful for coughing for children older than 1 year. An antiviral medication can be given in more severe cases, or to children who are at risk of severe infection. Importantly, antibiotics should not be given unless the doctor believes there is also a bacterial infection at the same time. Aspirin should never be given to children with the flu.

8. Should my child stay home from school? 

Yes. Children with the flu should stay home until fever is gone for 24 hours.

9. Should I take my child to the doctor? 

Since the primary treatment of the flu is rest and hydration, not every child with flu symptoms needs to go to the doctor. However, if your child is young (<5 years), has a chronic health condition, or if you are concerned, you should see your doctor.

10. What can my school do to help prevent the spread of the flu? 

Teach and role model good hygiene, clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, and encourage teachers and students to stay home if they are sick.

Dr. Donroe is a pediatrician and internist. He speaks English and Spanish. To make an appointment with him, call the BJU Service Center at 4008-919191.

• Not sure what to do if your child is feeling sick? Head to BJU's main campus or your nearest satellite clinic and ask at the Department of Pediatrics about our Pediatric Sick Visit Package. At a discounted price, you can get two flu vaccines and four doctor's visits for your child.

• Want to know more about this Dr. Donroe character? Read this Q&A we did with him. 

• Haven't gotten your flu shot yet? Here's why you really should!