Got a case of runny noses, watery eyes, and sneezing? Your kid may have become a victim to the Jeddah flu and fever season.
Flu, or influenza, is a viral infection that affects the nose, throat, and lungs. It is commonly associated with fever, cough, fatigue, body aches, runny nose, and congestion. Sometimes, your little ones may even experience vomiting or diarrhea, which makes flu and fever in kids especially challenging to handle.
The main culprits are influenza viruses types A and B, which thrive in cold weather. However, the same symptoms can be caused by other viruses, such as the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), especially in infants and younger children.
So, we spoke to Dr. Mariam Habib, a pediatrician at Maternity and Children Hospital, on how to take care of your children during flu season.
Jeddah flu and fever season
Wondering how to look after your children during this season? The golden rule: Most flu cases in children get better on their own within about a week, with rest, hydration, and proper home care.
Jeddah flu and fever season: Managing fever
- Use lukewarm (not cold) compresses and dress your child in light clothing.
- Give paracetamol (acetaminophen) in the dose appropriate to their age and weight.
- Not sure about the dosage? Use the Saudi Food and Drug Authority Paracetamol Calculator.
Jeddah flu and fever season: Relieving nasal congestion
- A stuffed-up nose is one of the most uncomfortable symptoms of the flu in babies and small kids, who breathe exclusively through their noses, The solution?
- Use saline solution drops for infants or saline spray for older children.
- Avoid steam inhalation and over-the-counter cough syrups, which are usually of no benefit to children and may even do more harm than good.
Jeddah flu and fever season: Fluids and rest
Encourage your child to drink plenty of fluids: water, soups, and fresh juices. Give them light meals and let them rest as much as possible.
When to see a doctor immediately?
- Your baby is less than one month old and has any fever.
- Your child is under three months with strong symptoms.
- There is unusual sleepiness, poor feeding, or dehydration.
- You notice rapid or labored breathing.
- Your child improves and then suddenly worsens, which may indicate a bacterial infection.
Jeddah flu and fever season: Seasonal flu vaccine
- Recommended for children aged six months and older.
- Best taken before winter
- it takes about two weeks for immunity to build.
- The vaccine is updated annually to reflect circulating virus strains.
Jeddah flu and fever season: Everyday prevention tips
- Encourage the practice of frequent handwashing with soap and water.
- Avoid close contact with anyone who shows flu symptoms.
- Ventilate rooms and keep surfaces clean.
- Teach children to cover their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
A reassuring note to the parents
Most cases of flu and fever in kids pass smoothly with a little patience, rest, and gentle care. Remember, comfort, hydration, and love are often the best medicine.
Winter fun in Jeddah
The Jeddah Book Fair is just around the corner next month. Don’t miss out on author signings, book launches, and fun activities for all ages. A brand-new Red Sea museum is coming to historic Jeddah in December as well.
