As temperatures drop, cases of respiratory illnesses, including flu, RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), pneumonia and croup are rising.
Dr. LaMonica Barnum, pediatrician at Atrium Health Levine Children’s Stanly Pediatrics, has seen a significant increase in sick visits during the winter months.
So, what can you do to help keep your little ones safe and healthy during this respiratory virus season? Here are some important steps Barnum recommends to help limit the spread of illness and protect your family:
Stay home when sick: If your child has symptoms like a cough, fever or fatigue, keep them at home. We get it– missing out on fun stuff is a bummer, but staying home actually helps your little one bounce back faster, and it keeps everyone else safe too. A little rest and relaxation go a long way!
Get vaccinated: Vaccines are the best way to prevent severe illness. Be sure your family is up to date on all vaccinations– this includes the flu shot, the new RSV vaccine and the updated COVID vaccine.
Practice good respiratory hygiene: Encourage frequent handwashing and remind your child to cover their nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing. It’s also a good idea to limit close contact with others when you or your child is feeling under the weather.
- Pro tip: “Teaching your child how to wash their hands properly is one of the most important things you can do to help protect them from illness,” says Barnum. “Make sure they’re washing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds– you can have them sing the ‘ABC song’ twice to time it right!”
What are the symptoms to watch for?
Common symptoms of respiratory viruses include stuffy nose, coughing, sore throat, headache, tiredness and muscle aches. Sometimes, your child might also have stomach issues like nausea and diarrhea or changes in their sense of smell and taste.
While most people, including children, who get a respiratory virus will have mild symptoms, it's important to remember that the severity can vary. Even mild symptoms can help spread the virus to others.
Who is at higher risk for severe illness?
- Infants under 6 months old
- Older adults
- Children or adults with underlying health conditions (such as asthma or diabetes)
- Children on medications that weaken the immune system (for example, those undergoing chemotherapy)
Tips to keep your family healthy this season:
- Get enough sleep: Make sure your child is getting enough rest to help support their immune system. For more information on how much your child or teen should be sleeping, talk with your pediatrician.
- Exercise regularly: Encourage at least 60 minutes of physical activity each day– it’s great for boosting the immune system and keeping everyone healthy! Whether it’s playing on the playground, riding bikes around the block or even jumping rope inside on those cold or rainy days, there are plenty of fun ways to get moving!
- Eat a healthy diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains supports your child’s immune function.
- Avoid large crowds: To prevent illness, avoid large crowds where exposure to germs is higher. If you need to be in public spaces or around others, consider wearing a mask to reduce your risk of getting sick.
The Best Care Options for Your Family
If your child is showing symptoms of a respiratory illness, our team can help you understand what your child is facing and how to properly care for it. Atrium Health Levine Children’s offers several in-person and virtual care options to help you schedule a visit that is convenient for you.
- Primary Care: Primary care is essential for keeping your child healthy year-round. If your child is experiencing symptoms like a persistent cough, unexplained fever or a sudden change in behavior, your child’s pediatrician is a great resource to help assess and manage these concerns.
- Pediatric eVisits: Get quick answers to your questions about your child’s minor health concerns with our easy-to-use, secure messaging platform. You can send details about your child’s symptoms, and a provider will respond with a personalized care plan within 24 hours, helping you feel confident about the next steps in your child’s care.
- Extended Care: Atrium Health Levine Children’s Pediatric Extended Care in Huntersville is the Charlotte region’s first after-hours and weekend clinic for sick and well visits. We offer flexible care for children of all ages, including checkups, sick visits and more, with both in-person and virtual options available.
- Nurse Chat: Nurse Chat is available seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Securely message a nurse who will help assess your child's symptoms, provide guidance and answer any questions. If further care is needed, the nurse will direct you to the right place for your child’s next steps.
- Urgent Care: In-person and virtual urgent care visits provide your child with prompt care for mild to moderate symptoms, helping you avoid long emergency room wait times. Our walk-in urgent care centers treat children from newborns to age 17 and are a great option if your child is experiencing cold or flu symptoms. You can also choose a virtual visit for a secure, face-to-face consultation with an urgent care provider from the comfort of your home.
- Emergency Care: Emergency Care is available 24/7 for serious or life-threatening injuries and illnesses. Our emergency rooms provide care for all ages, with two locations specially designed for children to ensure your little one gets the care they need.
Your family’s health and safety are our top priority. By following these simple precautions and staying up to date with vaccinations and hygiene, you can help reduce the risk of illness.
Experts at Atrium Health Levine Children’s are here to keep your family safe this respiratory virus season. Explore our virtual and in-person urgent care offerings or find a pediatrician near you today.
