How can I manage flu in my young children?

Question

Hello doctor,

This is the fifth day that my one-year-old and two-year-old have had the flu, and it has not improved. They started coughing and having a sore throat on day four. They are currently taking Oseltamivir 6 mg/ml, 5 ml twice a day for five days.

Kindly help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understood your concern.

I understand that your one-year-old and two-year-old, who are now on the fifth day of a flu-like illness, have developed cough and sore throat over the past two days. In young children, influenza symptoms often last five to seven days, and it is common for cough and throat irritation to appear or worsen later in the course of the illness.

The dose of Oseltamivir you mentioned is appropriate for a child weighing around 20.9 pounds, and while it helps reduce the severity and risk of complications, it does not always lead to immediate symptom resolution.

At this stage, close observation and supportive care are essential, including adequate fluid intake, fever control with weight-appropriate Paracetamol, and nasal saline for congestion.

However, if there is a persistent or high fever, fast or difficult breathing, poor feeding, reduced urine output, increasing lethargy, or no improvement over the next one to two days, I suggest you consult and see a pediatric doctor to rule out complications such as pneumonia or secondary bacterial infection.

I hope this helps.

Kindly follow up if you have more doubts.

Thank you.