Mami & Me: How to protect your family during flu season

My biggest lesson in parenthood is that you'll get sick when your child is sick. Recently, there’s been a surge in flu activity in California. According to CDC data, this year’s influenza season has peaked even higher than last year’s flu season, with a 7.75% increase.

Since December, my son has caught the flu at least five times, with some instances happening back to back. That's why it's so important for me to do everything I can to keep my family as healthy as possible during the worst flu season we've ever experienced.

Symptoms

The following are the most common symptoms for the flu: high-grade fever with body aches, chills, headache, nasal congestion, runny nose, sore throat or fatigue.

Prevention is key in staying healthy during the virus season

-Avoid close contact with sick people.

As parents, we need to be mindful of washing our hands and reminding our little ones to wash them for at least 20 seconds.

- It’s recommended to wear a mask if already sick to prevent it from spreading to others. 

-Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands. 

-Carry hand sanitizer everywhere you go.

-I recommend taking vitamins that will help with your immune system.

-Making sure you and your family stay up to date on flu vaccines. The flu vaccine reduces the severity of illness and lowers the risk of complications, especially for high-risk individuals such as young children, pregnant women, the elderly and those with chronic conditions.

-Limit the time your little one spends in childcare centers or other potentially contagious settings during periods of high flu activity. This may help prevent infection and the spread of other viruses. I have actually seen my son get sick from taking him to my local gym kids daycare.

-If your little one is already sick, it’s important for moms to be cautious since children can spread the virus to family members in their households. Infected persons or children can spread it by coughing or sneezing close to you. It can also be contracted by touching the surface that has the germs on it.

- This last one I emphasize the most to family members and friends because babies and toddlers often get sick from people who kiss their cute little faces.

In order to make my son feel better when he has the common flu, I always buy the following items from CVS or Walgreens (but please consider these just my personal recommendations. Please consult with your doctor before giving your child any medication.)

Lolleez Organic Throat Soothing Lollipops for Kids

They are organic lollipops that help with a sore throat. I highly recommend these because my son loves them and they come in different flavors. 

Zarbee's Kids Cough + Mucus Day/Night with Honey

These are over-the-counter medicines that are tailored for children two to six years old. Based on my experience with these, they truly work. Not only does it help with sore throats and dry coughs, but it helps pass mucus too.

The Boogie Brand Micro-Mist Saline Inhaler 

The Boogie mist relieves symptoms like congestion and discomfort caused by allergies, colds and others. It also helps promote easier breathing and it was a really easy and helpful tool for my toddler.

Vicks VapoRub

This last one is also one of my favorites. It’s my secret weapon, the one my own mom used on me when I was little, as do so many other Latino mothers and grandmothers: the famous Vicks VapoRub. To put on our little ones chest.

When should you see a doctor?

The flu can affect every individual differently, but if you or your little one is experiencing prolonged fevers lasting three to five days, worsening cough or shortness of breath, or signs of dehydration, it may be a good idea to give your doctor a call or make an appointment.

If there is anything I can help young mothers and fathers with, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at amairani@latinomedia.org. Follow my Mami & Me column stories here.