Reading Pediatric Associates PC

Flu season is here! Learn how you can help your child!

What is the flu?
ᐧ A contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus that infects the nose, throat and lungs.
ᐧ There are usually two strains that circulate each year - type A and type B.
ᐧ Flu season typically lasts from October-May, with January/February being the most active.

Signs and Symptoms
ᐧ Fever (usually over 101)
ᐧ Cough and congestion
ᐧ Headaches
ᐧ Muscle aches
ᐧ Sore throat
ᐧ Abdominal pain, vomiting
**There are usually no consequences. Some individuals, however, may develop secondary infections as a result of the illness, including ear infections and pneumonia

Emergency Warning Signs
ᐧ Fast or difficulty breathing
ᐧ Bluish/gray skin color
ᐧ Not drinking enough fluids, less than 1 wet diaper every 8 hours, or no tears when crying.
ᐧ Serious or constant vomiting
ᐧ Not waking up or not interacting
ᐧ Being so irritable that they don't want to be held
ᐧ Flu-like symptoms that improve, then return with fever and worse cough.
**If your child has any of the symptoms listed above, please seek IMMEDIATE medical attention.

Treatment → SUPPORTIVE CARE
ᐧ Rest
ᐧ Fluids
ᐧ Tylenol/Motrin as needed for fever/discomfort
** There are antiviral medications that may be used to treat the flu. These can shorten the illness and make symptoms milder when started during the first 48 hours of illness. Talk with your child's P*P to determine if they're a candidate.

How can I protect my child?
ᐧ Annual flu vaccine for yourself and your child. The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone 6 months and older.
ᐧ Caregivers of children at high risk of flu complications should also get a flu vaccine
ᐧ Avoid individuals who are sick as much as possible. Remember to regularly cover coughs and sneezes.
ᐧ Encourage frequent and proper hand washing and avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth.
ᐧ Regularly clean contaminated surfaces.

When can my child return to school?
ᐧ Individuals can continue to spread the virus for up to 5-7 days after symptoms begin.
ᐧ Most schools require your child to be fever free for 24 hours prior to returning. Talk to your child's P*P to determine the best time to return.

Let's talk about strep throat!

ᐧ Strep throat is an infection in the throat/tonsils caused by bacteria called group A streptococcus.
ᐧ Most common in children 5-15 years old (Rare in children < 3 years old) & during the school year, with peaks in winter & early spring.

Signs & Symptoms:
ᐧ Fever
ᐧ Pain when swallowing
ᐧ Red/swollen tonsils
ᐧ White patches or streaks of pus on tonsils
ᐧ Tiny red spots on roof of mouth
ᐧ Swollen lymph nodes
ᐧ Headache
ᐧ Stomach pain or nausea/vomiting
ᐧ Rash

Diagnosis:
ᐧ Your child will likely require an office visit for testing if you suspect strep throat.
ᐧ RPA uses ID NOW machines, which provide molecular results in < 6 minutes.

Treatment = **Antibiotics
ᐧ Individuals with strep throat usually start feeling better 1-2 days after starting antibiotics.
ᐧ If your child is given antibiotics, it's very important that they take it for the full course, as prescribed - even if symptoms get better or go away.
ᐧ The infection may worsen or spread to other body parts if not treated or improperly treated.
ᐧ In addition to antibiotics, supportive care interventions can be helpful. These include:
‣ Tylenol/Motrin as needed for fever/discomfort.
‣ Oral rehydration fluids to prevent dehydration.
‣ Warm foods & frozen treats can be soothing.
‣ Avoid orange/grapefruit juice, lemonade, or other acidic beverages, which can be irritating.

How can I protect my child:
ᐧ Throw away toothbrushes after 48 hours of antibiotic treatment.
ᐧ Don't share cups or utensils.
ᐧ Good hand hygiene can help protect you & your child from getting or spreading the infection.
ᐧ Cover nose & mouth when coughing or sneezing.
ᐧ Place tissues in the waste basket.

When can they return to school?
ᐧ Individuals with strep throat should stay home for school, work, or daycare until they are:
‣ Fever free for 24 hours, and
‣ Have taken antibiotics for at least 24 hours.

For more information, see the Strep Throat handout at readingpediatrics.org.

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