Flu in babies - causes , sign - symptoms, prevention and Vaccine

 

Flu is a common disease that affects all age group of babies . Influenza or flu is a viral infection afflicting the nose, throat and lungs and can make babies quite sick. It is quite different from cold, contrary to popular belief. Don't stress if your baby has the flu. Knowing how the flu affects babies, can help you nurture your baby back to health in no time.  Here everythings you need to know about it.

How common is the flu in infants?

It is common for babies to contract the flu because of their low immunity. They are also at a higher risk of developing complications such as pneumonia, bacterial infection and sepsis.

Causes of Flu - 

Babies can be exposed to the influenza virus due to infected people coughing or sneezing near them. This is common in crowded area or if a family member or caregiver is ill.

Flu Symptoms - 

Common symptoms

1.Fever

2. Chills and shaking

3.Runny or stuffy nose

4.Sore throat

5.Persistent dry cough

6.Vomiting or diarrhoea

Serious Symptoms

1. Fever of 104°F or higher in a baby of under three months of age.

2. Fever for over 24 hours.

3. Dry cough that stays for a week of more.

4. Breathing problems

5. Bluish skin colour.

Treatment

1. The doctor diagnoses the flu and prescribes a flu medicine.

2. Sufficient rest and hydration is advised.

3. The medications can take up to 72 hours to work.

4. Babies aged two or under may be hospitalised if their condition is severe.

Flu Vaccine - 

Babies over six months of age cab be vaccinated every year at the start of flu season. It is important that parent and caregivers also get vaccinated.

Flu symptoms can last for a week, but in some instances, it can take up to weeks for a full recovery.

Preventions

1. Practice good hygiene and get your baby vaccinated regularly.

2. Regularly wash his hands with soap and water.

3. Keep away yor baby from sick people and sanitise toys and household surfaces regularly.

4.Let your bay sleep and rest as much as he needs to.

5. Keep your baby hydrated by feeding him soups.

6. Consult your doctor about administering pain relievers if needed.

Some home remedies for cold and flu in babies and kids.

1. Breastfeeding - it contains antibodies which make your baby’s body immune to all types of flu virus. In case your baby is under 6 months, male sure your baby gets enough breast- milk.

2. Garlic and Ajwain Pouch - Garlic and ajwain contain antibacterial and anti-viral  properties. It’s one of the best herbal remedies for cold in children. Dry roast 2 Garlic cloves and 1 spoon of ajwain. Once they cool, you can make pouch with the muslin cloth. Place it near the baby cot. Alternatively, the pouch can be rubbed under the baby feet.

3. Lemon water with Honey - Lemon are filled with Vitamin C that is effective in fighting off a cold.

4. Kesar Tilak - This will help in absorbing the water from the baby’s forehead and provide relief. Make paste  from kesar  and apply under the baby feet  and on forehead after dark as a tilak.

5. Carrot Juice - Carrot contains essential nutrients and vitamins that help in boosting the immune system that fights the cold.

6. Saline Drop - Nasal or saline drops can provide a quick and safe option to provide relief to your baby from congestion.

7. Humidifier - Humidifier will help to draw relief from a cough by moistening the dry air.

8. Massage with Mustard Oil and with Rock salt that will help in relieving congestion of the throat.