The coming fall season brings back-to-school time as well as back-to-cold-and-flu time for many families. What better time to arm ourselves with the information we need to keep our kids—and ourselves—safe against the viral onslaught.
What is the flu?
Caused by influenza viruses A, B, or C, the flu is a respiratory infection lasting about a week to 10 days. Seasonal outbreaks involving influenza A or B occur between November and April. While it can be severe in a small percentage of children under five, only about 1 percent require hospitalization.
How is the flu different from a cold?
The flu has a rapid onset of more severe symptoms compared to a cold. Flu symptoms include headache, chills, cough, fever, loss of appetite, muscle aches, and tiredness, sometimes with nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Fever lasts 3-4 days, with illness resolving in 7-10 days, and can be infectious for up to a week.
A cold typically involves a runny nose, watery eyes, and sore throat, with milder symptoms developing gradually.
How can influenza be prevented?
Influenza spreads through droplets in the air and via contact with contaminated surfaces like toys or doorknobs. Since the virus can survive up to 48 hours on surfaces, frequent handwashing is essential. Other strategies include staying home when sick, teaching children to cover coughs and sneezes, and disinfecting surfaces.
Can natural health products help in prevention?
Natural health products can support immunity and reduce complications from secondary infections.
- Probiotics have been shown to reduce respiratory infections, including the flu, by strengthening immune response.
- Echinacea may stimulate immune activity and has been linked to fewer respiratory infections and flu cases when used preventively.
- Vitamin D deficiency is associated with increased risk of respiratory infections; supplementation may help prevent influenza, especially in deficient children.
- Medicinal mushrooms like turkey tail, shiitake, reishi, and chaga contain compounds that modulate the immune system and have shown antiviral activity in vitro.
How do you treat the flu?
Mild flu symptoms in children are best managed with supportive care: hydration, light clothing, and a comfortable environment. Tepid baths and cool-mist humidifiers can help reduce discomfort. Honey lozenges (for children over 3) and saltwater gargles can soothe symptoms.
Over-the-counter cold medicines are not recommended for children under 6 without a doctor’s approval. Aspirin should never be given due to Reye syndrome risk.
Treating with natural health products
To reduce symptoms and disease duration, consider echinacea, elderberry, or vitamin D, tailored to your child’s age.
- Elderberry has antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects and has been associated with reduced upper respiratory symptoms.
- Echinacea at the start of symptoms may shorten illness duration and promote viral clearance.
A naturopathic doctor can develop a customized protocol for your child at the first signs of cold or flu.
By Heidi Fritz, MA, ND