Each year, millions of children get sick with the seasonal flu, also known as influenza. The influenza virus leads to thousands of pediatric hospitalizations, and tragically, some children die from flu-related complications.
Additionally, although the World Health Organization (WHO) ended the global emergency status for COVID-19 earlier this year and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) described the disease as endemic this summer, cases have spiked recently. With the possibility of both flu and COVID-19 circulating at the same time, it is important to be prepared and take preventative measures to protect your family.
At Capital Area Pediatrics, we are committed to keeping our young patients, their families, and our community safe throughout the year. Schedule an appointment with us today to safeguard your family against the seasonal flu, COVID-19, and other preventable diseases.
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In this blog, we'll outline the essential steps to shield your family from the seasonal flu and other respiratory viruses.
Understanding the Flu & COVID-19
Both the flu and COVID-19 are highly contagious respiratory illnesses that are passed from person to person by respiratory droplets from coughs, sneezes, or even talking. Though they are caused by different viruses (the influenza viruses cause influenza; the SARS-CoV-2 virus causes COVID-19), they share many of the same symptoms, including:
- Fever, feeling feverish, or having chills
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Fatigue
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle pain or body aches
- Headache
- Vomiting or diarrhea
Severe Symptoms & Complications
Both illnesses can lead to pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and exacerbation of chronic medical conditions. Additionally, COVID-19 potentially causes severe inflammation and immune response complications known as 'cytokine storm,' leading to damage far beyond that of typical flu complications. Regardless of illness, severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain or pressure, and confusion warrant immediate medical attention.
The Importance of Prevention
When it comes to protecting our children, prevention is the name of the game. Young children are particularly vulnerable to severe flu complications because their immune systems are still developing, meaning their bodies aren't as equipped to fight off infections as older children or adults. The hospitalization rate for this age group is concerning, with children under five years old, especially those under two, at the highest risk.
COVID-19, on the other hand, typically affects children less severely, but there have still been cases of severe illness and even death in younger age groups. Additionally, children are often asymptomatic, meaning they can spread the virus to others who may be more vulnerable without anyone knowing.
Vaccines are powerful tools in the prevention of infectious diseases, including the flu and COVID-19. They are designed to prepare the immune system to recognize and combat pathogens, such as viruses and bacteria, without causing the disease. When a vaccine is administered, it introduces harmless components of the pathogen and stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies, which can quickly recognize and destroy the pathogen if the body is exposed to it in the future.
Both the flu shot and COVID-19 vaccines are crucial because these viruses change over time. Flu viruses, in particular, mutate rapidly, which is why the flu vaccine is updated annually. This continual adjustment helps the vaccine be as effective as possible in protecting against serious illness. COVID-19 vaccines are important as well, especially as new variants emerge, boosting immune defense and reducing the risk of complications.
Lastly, it's important to know that vaccines are thoroughly tested for safety and effectiveness before being approved. They are continuously monitored, and any potential side effects are closely tracked by a number of health organizations, including the CDC and FDA.
Preparing Your Family
Here are some essential steps you can take to prepare your family for the upcoming flu season and potential COVID-19 outbreaks:
- Get Vaccinated Early: Schedule COVID-19 and flu vaccines for everyone in your family above 6 months of age. It's especially important for young children, older adults, pregnant women, and people with chronic health conditions to get vaccinated. At CAP, we offer online self-scheduling to make the process as easy and convenient as possible.
- Practice Good Hygiene: Teach your children to wash their hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing their nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water aren't available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
- Clean and Disinfect: Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces in your home, such as doorknobs, light switches, and countertops.
- Cover Coughs and Sneezes: Encourage your children to cover their mouths and noses with a tissue when they cough or sneeze, and then dispose of the tissue in the trash. If a tissue isn't available, they should cough or sneeze into their elbow.
- Avoid Close Contact: Teach your children to avoid close contact with people who are sick. If someone in your household is sick, try to limit their contact with others and designate a separate room and bathroom for them if possible.
- Stay Informed: Stay updated on the latest recommendations and guidelines from reputable sources, like the CDC.
What To Do If Your Child Gets Sick
If your child becomes ill with flu or COVID-19 despite your best efforts to prevent it, here's what you can do:
- Isolation: If possible, isolate your sick child in a separate room to minimize contact with other household members. Assign a specific bathroom for only them to use, if feasible. Keep them home from school or daycare until they are no longer contagious.
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep a record of your child's symptoms, noting any changes or developments. This can be important for deciding when further action is needed.
- Hydration and Nutrition: Make sure your child drinks plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. Provide light, nutritious meals that are easy to digest. Soups, broths, and fruit popsicles are good options.
- Rest: Encourage plenty of rest as it is crucial for recovery. Set up a comfortable space for your child to sleep or relax.
- Use Over-the-Counter Medications: Acetaminophen or ibuprofen (for children 6 months and older) can help alleviate fever and body aches. Always follow dosing instructions, and if you have any questions, give our team a call.
When to Visit Your CAP Pediatrician
If your child's symptoms worsen, persist for more than a few days, or you have concerns about their health, it's crucial to contact your pediatrician. They can provide personalized advice and treatment options tailored specifically to your child's needs, ensuring they receive the best possible care. At Capital Area Pediatrics, we offer appointments every day of the week, including on weeknights and weekends, making preventative flu and COVID-19 shots, as well as sick visits, convenient and accessible for busy families.
Your pediatrician can evaluate your child's symptoms to determine if they have the flu, COVID-19, or another respiratory illness, such as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). With their expertise, they can recommend the best course of action, including appropriate testing, antiviral medications, and care strategies to support your child's recovery. Additionally, they can advise on whether further intervention or hospitalization is necessary.
When to Seek Urgent Medical Care
Immediate medical attention is needed if your child:
- Has difficulty breathing or is breathing rapidly.
- Is dehydrated (has not urinated for 8 hours, dry mouth, no tears when crying, etc.).
- Has chest pain.
- Has severe muscle pain.
- Is not alert or interacting despite being awake.
- Has a fever above 104°F (or, if under 12 weeks, any fever)
- Had a fever or cough that improved but then returned or worsened.
If you’re not sure if your child’s symptoms warrant urgent medical care, reach out to your Capital Area Pediatrics office. Our team will be able to help you determine what kind of care is needed, whether that means a sick visit with us or a visit to your nearest urgent care or emergency room.
Schedule Your Child's Vaccinations Today
Protecting your family from flu and COVID-19 starts with timely vaccination, and Capital Area Pediatrics is here to help. With flexible scheduling and five convenient locations across Northern Virginia, we make it easy for you to prioritize your child's well-being.
Whether you want to make sure your child is up-to-date on their vaccinations or need to schedule a sick visit, our team is dedicated to providing quality, compassionate care for your little ones all year long. Schedule your child's appointment today and take a proactive step towards protecting their health!
