Is It a Cold or Flu?

Both colds and flu are unwelcome visitors, but they don't always knock on the door the same way. Here's a quick rundown of what to look out for:

• Colds develop gradually and are milder.
• Flu comes on quickly and often hits harder.

Here’s a simple breakdown of the difference between cold and flu symptoms:

Boosting Your Child’s Immunity

While we can't make children entirely immune to germs, several ways exist to enhance their natural defenses.

Here are some effective strategies to boost your child's immunity:

Nutrition: Focus on immune-boosting foods

• Boost Vitamin C intake with citrus fruits, strawberries, and bell peppers, among other sources
• Incorporate Vitamin D from milk, eggs, and fatty fish
• Include zinc-rich foods like lean meats, nuts, and seeds in their diet

Prioritize Sleep

• Maintain a consistent bedtime routine
• Ensure 9-11 hours of sleep for school-age children

Encourage Regular Exercise

• Daily physical activity of an hour is recommended
• Make exercise enjoyable with bike rides, backyard games, or dance sessions

Emphasize Proper Handwashing

• Encouraging thorough handwashing for 20 seconds with soap and water before meals, after the bathroom, and upon returning home

Establish a Health-Promoting Daily Routine

• Morning: Start with a nutritious breakfast and some light stretching
• After school: Wash hands, have a healthy snack, and engage in outdoor activities
• Evening: Enjoy a balanced dinner and follow a consistent bedtime routine

Vaccinations: Flu Shots and Beyond

When you want to boost your child's immunity, vaccination is a powerful way to go.

The flu shot is a yearly must-have for several reasons:

• Effectiveness: While not 100% foolproof, flu vaccines significantly reduce the risk of illness and severe complications.
• Evolving Protection: The flu virus changes yearly, as does the vaccine to match the most likely strains.
• Community Shield: When more people get vaccinated, it helps protect vulnerable individuals who can't receive the vaccine.

For children, the flu shot is crucial because:

• Kids are more prone to catch and spread the flu
• Children under 5 are at higher risk for flu-related complications
• The vaccine can make the illness milder once caught

Antibodies develop about two weeks after vaccination, so it's best to get the shot before flu season starts.

It's worth mentioning other vaccinations that can help keep your child healthy:

COVID-19 Vaccine

• It can be given alongside the flu shot and helps prevent COVID-19-related illness and complications. 

Pneumococcal Vaccine

• It protects against pneumococcal disease, which can cause pneumonia.

DTaP Vaccine

• Protects against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis

Treating Cold and Flu Symptoms at Home

There are many ways to alleviate symptoms and support your child's healing process. Here are some safe and effective cold and flu prevention tips you can do at home:

Reducing Fever

• Use acetaminophen or ibuprofen as prescribed for your child's age and weight.
• Dress your child in light clothing and keep room temperature comfortable.

Caution: Never use aspirin for children or teenagers with viral illnesses, as it can lead to a severe but rare condition called Reye's syndrome.

Always Hydrate

• Offer water, clear broths, or electrolyte solutions frequently
• Popsicles can be a fun way to increase fluid intake for younger children
  
  

Soothing a Sore Throat

• For children over 4, try warm salt water gargles
• Offer cold foods like ice cream or frozen yogurt to numb throat pain
• Use honey to coat and soothe the throats of children over one year old
  
  

Managing Nasal Congestion

• Use saline nasal drops or spray to loosen mucus
• For infants, use a bulb syringe to suction out nasal passages gently

Easing Coughs

• A spoonful of honey can help suppress coughs
• Reduce postnasal drip by elevating the bed head

While OTC medications can provide relief, you should:

• Always read labels carefully and follow dosage instructions.
• Never give cough and cold medicines to children under four without consulting your pediatrician.
• Avoid combining products that treat multiple symptoms, as they may provide unnecessary medication.
• Keep track of when medications are given to avoid overdosing.

When to Call the Doctor

While most cold and mild flu cases can be managed at home, some symptoms may require professional medical attention.

• Difficulty Breathing: Look for rapid breathing, wheezing, or using chest and neck muscles to breathe.
• High Fever Lasting More than Three Days: High prolonged fever might indicate a more severe infection.
• Severe Dehydration: If your child isn’t drinking fluids, has dry lips, or is not urinating as much, they may be dehydrated.
• Unusual Lethargy or Irritability: If your child seems unusually sleepy, hard to wake up, or overly fussy, it’s time to call the doctor.
• Severe Vomiting or Diarrhea: Persistent vomiting or diarrhea can lead to dehydration and may need medical intervention.

You know your child best. If something doesn't seem right, it's always better to err on the side of caution and reach out to your pediatrician.



Sang Pediatrics: Your Trusted Partner in Pediatric Care

As a parent, you want nothing more than to see your child happy and healthy. By providing them with the right care, you can make them more comfortable and speed up their recovery.

That's why, here at Sang Pediatrics, we partner with you to ensure that your child receives the best possible care by providing only the best pediatricians in Fresno and Clovis.

• 
  Sick Visits: If your child shows symptoms of a cold or flu, our team is ready to diagnose and treat them promptly.
• Immunizations: We provide flu shots and other essential vaccinations to help keep your family safe.
• Ongoing Support: Our team is with you through the entire cold and flu season, offering timely check-ups, treatment, and advice whenever you need us.



Stay healthy, stay informed, and remember—Sang Pediatrics is always here when you need us. Here's to a season of wellness and resilience for you and your loved ones!

Flu-Proof Your Family