Getting Your Child Ready for Flu Season: A Parent’s Guide 

As the cooler months roll in, so does flu season. For parents, this time of year often comes with extra tissues, restless nights, and sometimes unexpected trips to the doctor’s office. But with some planning and proactive steps, you can help keep your child healthier, minimize the spread of illness, and feel more prepared when the flu inevitably makes its rounds. 

At PM Pediatric Urgent Care, we see firsthand how flu season impacts families. Our pediatric experts are here seven days a week to provide flu treatment and expert care when your child needs it most. Here’s what you can do at home, and how we can help to get your child ready for flu season. 

1. Start with the Flu Shot 

The single most effective way to protect your child from influenza is the annual flu vaccine. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone six months and older receive the vaccine each year. 

Why it matters: 

• The flu shot is updated annually to match the strains expected to circulate. 

• Vaccinated children are less likely to experience severe illness, hospitalization, or complications like pneumonia.  

• Here is a powerful and sobering reminder of the importance of the flu shot – 90% of the pediatric deaths from flu in 2024-2025 were not fully vaccinated for flu. 

• It also helps protect vulnerable family members such as infants, grandparents, or anyone with a weakened immune system, including fellow classmates.  

• The risk of side effects from the flu shot is very small, and significantly lower than side effects from influenza infection. The flu shot has been in use and extensively studied for over 70 years. 

2. Reinforce Healthy Habits at Home 

Children thrive on routine, which makes flu season a great time to revisit everyday hygiene practices. Simple steps can make a big difference in reducing exposure and spread. 

• Ensure you practice proper handwashing with your child, which includes warm soapy water for at least 20 seconds  

• Cough and sneeze etiquette 

• Do not share items with friends or siblings that touch our mouths, such as, drinks, lip balm, etc.

3. Boost Immunity Through Lifestyle Choices 

While no supplement or vitamin guarantees flu protection, maintaining strong overall health helps the body fight off infections more effectively. Focus on: 

• Balanced nutrition 

• Regular exercise and stress management 

• Adequate sleep (9-12 hours per night depending on age). Sleep has been scientifically proven to decrease the risk of viral infection! 

4. Prepare Your “Flu Season Kit” 

When illness strikes, you’ll be thankful to have supplies ready. A simple home flu kit can help you manage symptoms and keep your child comfortable. Include items like: 

• A reliable thermometer 

• Age-appropriate fever and pain relievers (acetaminophen or ibuprofen, never aspirin for children).  Most pediatricians favor ibuprofen as it is a stronger fever reducer, and it lasts longer (6 hours vs 4 hours) 

• Saline spray and a bulb syringe or nasal aspirator 

• A cool-mist humidifier 

• Tissues and hand sanitizer 

• Electrolyte solutions or popsicles for hydration 

5. Know the Signs of the Flu 

It can sometimes be tricky to tell the difference between a cold and the flu. Being able to recognize flu symptoms early helps you know when to seek care. 

Typical flu symptoms include: 

• Sudden onset of fever and chills 

• Significant body aches can help identify flu vs other viral infections. 

• Fatigue and weakness 

• Cough, sore throat, or congestion 

• In some cases, vomiting or diarrhea (more common in children than adults) 

If your child has difficulty breathing, persistent high fever, severe dehydration, or appears unusually lethargic, seek medical attention right away. PM Pediatric Urgent Care is open late every day, making it easier for families to get answers without waiting for an appointment. 

6. Testing and Treatment considerations 

If you are concerned about the flu, you are encouraged to visit one of our PM Pediatric Urgent Care locations (or use our telemedicine platform) for evaluation.  The good news is that flu is a clinical diagnosis, and with a thorough history and physical, our providers can provide recommendations to carry your child through this intense but usually self-limiting illness.  If testing is indicated, we have the capability of performing rapid testing or sendout PCR testing which is somewhat more accurate.  Most patients do not require treatment with anti-virals, as their benefit is somewhat limited and they can cause side effects (most commonly vomiting).  However, certain high-risk patients can benefit from oseltamivir (Tamiflu) or baloxivir (Xofluza) if started within the first 2 days of illness. 

7. Don’t Forget Prevention Beyond the Flu Shot 

In addition to vaccination, parents can take other steps to reduce flu spread: 

• Keep children home when they are sick. Returning too soon increases the risk of relapse and spread. 

• Disinfect high-touch surfaces like doorknobs, remotes, and toys. 

• Encourage your child to use their own water bottles, utensils, and personal items. 
   

Flu season may be inevitable, but with preparation and preventive care, it doesn’t have to catch your family off guard. By getting your child vaccinated, practicing healthy habits, and planning ahead, you’re not only protecting them, you’re protecting your entire community. 

At PM Pediatric Urgent Care, our pediatric experts are here seven days a week to help families through flu season. We’re committed to keeping your child healthy and cared for in an environment built just for kids. 

This season, a little preparation goes a long way. And if the flu does hit your household, remember, you’re not alone. We’re here to help.