Care Treatments for Cold & Flu Symptoms

Headache/Fever – You can administer acetaminophen (Tylenol) to children greater than 2 months old or ibuprofen (Advil) to children over 6 months old. Always follow the appropriate dosage based on your child’s weight or age. * It is NOT recommended to switch between medications—select one and remain consistent with it. Instead of administering doses every 4 or 6 hours, wait to see if the fever reoccurs before treating again. See dosage chart here.

Cough –

• • Any Age:
    • Breathe warm mist, such as running shower in a closed bathroom
    • Warm clear fluids to drink such as apple juice and lemonade.
  • Age 1 year and older:
    • Items above
    • Herbal tea a few ounces at a time (30ml).
    • Honey can help soothe your child’s cough. ½ to teaspoon (2-5ml) as needed.
  • Age 6 years and older
    • Items above
    • Cough drops or hard candy
  • Avoid cough medication for children less than 12 years of age

Congestion –

• • • • Saline (salt water) nose drops
        • Step 1: 3 drops in each nostril. If under 1 year of age use 1 drop.
        • Step 2: Blow (or suction) each nostril separately, while closing off other nostril.
        • Step 3: Repeat steps 1 and 2 until discharge is clear. No more than 4 times per day.
      • Nasal suction for children who are too young to clear their own nasal passages.
      • Nasal rinses with premixed solutions or a neti pot