Fever
All kids get fevers. It can sometimes seem like your children have fevers all winter, especially if you have more than one child and they tend to rotate. Children certainly get fevers more often than adults, usually because they have less developed immune systems. If your child has a mild fever, a fever medication such as Tylenol or Motrin (appropriate for your child's age, of course). You can help your child feel better by giving them plenty of fluids and small amounts of easy-to-digest foods. Your child should also get plenty of rest and a humidifier in the bedroom might not be a bad idea.
Take your child's temperature regularly during this time. Taking the temperature orally is safest if your child is over four years of age. Under the arm is better for any child younger than four. If the fever lowering medication doesn't work, the fever persists, or the fever is unusually high, take your child to a doctor immediately.
Colds, Coughs, and the Flu
All kids get colds, most get coughs, and many get the flu (even if they've had the flu shot). These ailments are caused by common viruses, but being common doesn't make them any less irritating. Your child may expereince headaches, sore throat, sneezing, a runny nose, and general aches and pains. Many of these symptoms will abate with a little time, rest, and plenty of fluids. Some parents like to administer a medication designed to relieve these symptoms, but it's not strictly necessary. Keep the kleenex by the bed, serve warm foods that are easy to digest, and just be there. If your child is cold, get a blanket. If they're thirsty, give them ginger ale. In most cases, there aren't a lot of things you can do.
If the symptoms persist or get worse, a visit to the doctor is in order. And if your child is having trouble breathing, get to the emergency room. Breathing problems aren't something you should fool around with.
Though you generally can't prevent all illnesses, you can help your child cope with them. You can also teach your child to wash his or her hands frequently and avoid touching the eyes and nose. These practices will help prevent the spread of illness. Feed your child a decent diet and keep away from others who are ill. Prevention will help keep your child healthy and maybe even stop your child from contracting many of the illnesses floating around this winter.
You might also consider the annual flu shot if your doctor recommends it. My children don't get the shot, and they almost never become ill, but this is a decision for you and your doctor.
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