Respiratory illnesses like the flu are increasing in our area, even after Christmas.
We’re seeing a big surge in flu cases, especially in children, said Dr. Marla Levine. Usually, the flu hits earlier in the season, but this year it spiked later.
According to the CDC, Tennessee has gone from high to very high levels of flu activity, making it one of the worst-affected states in the country—even before holiday gatherings.
The flu is hitting hard right now, Dr. Levine explained. “We’ll have to wait and see how it looks after the holidays.
Dr. Levine, a pediatrician at Vanderbilt University, says the Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital emergency room is overwhelmed with flu patients. She points out that many parents worry too much about high fevers.
Even fevers as high as 103.5, 104, or 104.5 are manageable if your child is otherwise healthy, she said.
To help your child recover at home, Dr. Levine suggests:
- Using Tylenol or Motrin to reduce fever.
- Suctioning their nose for younger kids.
- Encouraging them to drink fluids.
- Not worrying if they aren’t eating much.
If your child doesn’t seem to improve or looks unwell, don’t hesitate to seek medical help.
If you feel something isn’t right, we’re here to help, said Dr. Levine.
She also stresses the importance of good hygiene to keep your family healthy. And if you’re worried about getting sick, it’s not too late to get a flu shot.