6 GOLDEN RULES TO PROTECT CHILDREN FROM THE FLU

Winter months pose a significant health risk, particularly for school-age children. Children are more frequently affected by upper respiratory tract infections, and influenza continues to spread in a chain-like manner among children. During viral infections, controlling high fever is important, while measures to protect children from influenza should also be observed. Uz. Dr. Mehmet Güneş from the Pediatrics Department at Memorial Antalya Hospital provided information about influenza and its treatment in children.

If Left Untreated, It Can Lead to More Serious Illnesses

Influenza, commonly seen in winter months, is caused by a virus called "influenza." Influenza becomes contagious between the first 24-72 hours. Particularly in children whose immune systems are weaker than adults, influenza can rapidly progress to pneumonia and bronchitis. The main symptoms of influenza are high fever, fatigue, muscle and joint pain, chills, headache, sore throat and cough. The cough does not feel intense enough to irritate the bronchi. The disease, which progresses severely during the first 3-4 days, typically passes within 7-10 days. If symptoms include difficulty breathing, vomiting, painful swallowing, cough and congestion, and the fever does not subside, medical consultation is essential.

Consider These Recommendations for Protecting Your Child from Influenza!

1. Ensure that crowded places such as daycare and schools are well-ventilated. 2. Teach your child to cover their mouth when coughing or sneezing. 3. Pay attention to frequent handwashing. 4. Keep your child away from crowded environments as much as possible during flu season. 5. Ensure consumption of fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C, which supports the immune system. 6. Ensure your child spends time outdoors during the day.

Vitamin D Deficiency Should Be Monitored

The best way to protect children from seasonal influenza is vaccination. Children at particular risk—those with allergies, asthma, bronchitis, those who have had pneumonia (i.e., frequently ill children) or school-age children—must be vaccinated. During winter, sun exposure is reduced, leading to decreased vitamin D levels in both children and adults. Low vitamin D levels also increase susceptibility to disease. Following doctor's advice, blood levels should be checked for deficiency, and vitamin D drops should be administered in doses appropriate to the child's age.