p>Some of the most common illnesses that pediatricians see during the winter season include viral respiratory infections, such as Influenza (the flu), Strep Throat, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and Viral Gastroenteritis (stomach bug).
Thankfully, for children and parents alike, these common ailments are avoidable, or if contracted, their pain and discomfort can be minimized.
Influenza – The Flu
Most people associate influenza, the flu, with winter for good reason – flu cases peak between the months of December and February. Symptoms of the flu include body aches, headaches, fever, chills, dry cough and fatigue. Additionally, young children can sometimes experience nausea and vomiting.
The best way to prevent the flu is through a flu vaccination that is available as a nasal spray or shot. Children six months or older should be vaccinated. However, parents should first consult their pediatrician.
Another way to prevent the flu is by properly hand washing with warm, soapy water for at least 15 seconds. Colds and flus are spread through sneezing, coughing and contaminated surfaces and parents should limit their children’s exposure to infected people. Kids should also be taught proper cold etiquette, such as covering their mouths when then they cough or sneeze, and toys, school items and all surfaces should be cleaned as regularly as possible.
Strep Throat
Strep throat is another unwelcome visitor during the winter months, and children of late preschool and elementary school age are most affected. Symptoms include difficulty swallowing, tender or swollen glands, red and enlarged tonsils, lower stomach pain, fever, severe coughing or wheezing.
A throat swab by a medical profession is necessary in order to determine if the streptococcal bacteria are present. Strep throat usually needs to be treated with antibiotics. With the proper care, plenty of rest and fluids, most children recover within a few days.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
RSV is a common virus which causes cold-like symptoms – cough, sneezing, mild fever, blocked nose – but can lead to breathing problems if the lungs are affected. Approximately two-thirds of infants will become afflicted with RSV before they are one year old. Some warning signs that a child’s cold can turn into RSV include a worsening cough, difficulty breathing or distress, or wheezing.
Viral Gastroenteritis- The Stomach Bug
The stomach bug usually begins with vomiting, followed by diarrhea. Parents can help reduce their children’s chances of acquiring the stomach bug by encouraging frequent hand washing, as well as promptly washing any soiled clothing and properly disinfecting surfaces.
Proper Care
Most seasonal illnesses in children are mild and are resolved within days, or a week or two. Children should be detained from attending daycare, school, and other activities and should stay constantly hydrated and rested.
Some warning signs that these common ailments are more serious include mucus building from viral infections, shortness of breath or chest pain, fever of 100.4F or more, acute drowsiness, or inability to sleep.
If any of these warning signs persist, parents are encouraged to call their doctor who can determine the best course of action.