Toddlers and The Flu | Bella Baby Photography

Here at Bella Baby Photography, we know flu season is a normal part of life for all families, however unwelcome it may be. For parents of young children, it can be a particularly stressful time. Although the holidays are behind us and spring is around the corner, the threat of the flu has not passed – incidents of influenza often extend through the month of May.

Do you know how to recognize the flu in your toddler? Unfortunately, the flu in children can present itself with more cold symptoms than most adults experience.

Typically, toddlers with the flu will experience at least three of these symptoms:

• Nausea or vomiting
  
• Body and muscle aches
  
• Coughing
  
• Diarrhea or abdominal pain
  
• Headache
  
• High fever and chills
  
• Sore throat
  
• Sore, red eyes
  
• Stuffy nose or runny nose
  

When it comes to treating the symptoms of your toddler’s flu, you’ll need to determine which symptoms are causing the most discomfort and focus on those.

• Children younger than six aren’t usually ready for a multi-symptom cold medicine, but they can take one or two medicines for their worst symptoms. Ibuprofen can bring relief for aches and pains, while a singular cough medicine can help a toddler get through the night despite an annoying cough.

• For all children, make sure they stay well hydrated with plenty of fluids to keep mucus thin and avoid a sinus or ear infection.

• Giving your toddler a warm bath or using hot water bottles can help relieve muscle and body aches naturally.

The good news about the flu is that it’s mostly just an uncomfortable nuisance. The real risks of influenza in young children come from complications like pneumonia or severe dehydration.

We know that parenting is a challenging and rewarding experience, and we want to help you capture every milestone. In addition to our newborn hospital portraits, we also offer Bella Life packages for family portraits and more. Visit our website today for details.