health
Your guide to the summer flu
Think flu is just a winter worry? Think again. South African summers can bring sneezes, fevers, body aches, and coughs too. Learn how to spot, prevent and treat summer flu in kids, so your holidays stay sunny, safe and sniffle-free.
When you think of flu, your mind probably jumps to winter scarves and steaming soup. But did you know that your little one can catch the flu during summer too?
“ Influenza viruses circulate year-round in South Africa,” says Dr Maretha Combrink, paediatrician at Mediclinic Kloof.“ Changing weather patterns, increased travel and indoor gatherings during the holidays all contribute to flu cases in warmer months.”
While summer flu is generally milder than the winter version, it can still pack a punch – especially in young children or those with underlying health conditions like asthma, diabetes or a weakened immune system.
How to spot the summer flu
If your child is suddenly hit with a high fever( above 38.5 ° C), body aches, chills, fatigue, and a nasty cough, it might be more than just a cold.“ Look out for sweating even when it’ s hot outside, and a harsh cough or sore throat that seems worse than the usual sniffles,” advises Dr Combrink.
Prevention is better than cure
Keeping flu at bay takes some teamwork( and a bit of planning).“ Teach children to cough or sneeze into their elbow or a tissue,” says Dr Combrink.“ And make sure they wash their hands often with soap or sanitiser.”
If your child isn’ t feeling well, it’ s best to keep them home from daycare or holiday clubs. Regularly cleaning toys and shared surfaces, and letting fresh air into rooms instead of relying solely on air-conditioning, can also make a big difference.
And yes, flu vaccines are not just for winter!“ An annual flu vaccination is recommended for all children from six months and older,” says Dr Combrink.
When to call the doctor
Seek medical help if your child struggles to breathe, can’ t keep fluids down, becomes unusually sleepy or irritable, or if their fever isn’ t responding to medication.
A little vigilance goes a long way in keeping your summer flu-free( and full of fun instead of tissues)! �
22 www. babysandbeyond. co. za