See also COUGH; FEVER; SINUSITIS; and/or SORE THROAT if your child's flu is accompanied by these symptoms.
Prevention
Flu vaccines are offered yearly. These are sometimes recommended by family physicians for people who are most likely to be exposed to or endangered by the illness, such as health care workers, the elderly, and people with chronic heart, lung, or kidney diseases. The flu shot may cause mild flulike symptoms. Also, since flu vaccines are formulated based on viruses that have caused outbreaks in the past, they may or may not be effective in preventing flu caused by this year's virus.
Astragalus helps to build the immune system, and thus make your child less vulnerable to the flu. Give your child one dose, three times a week, during the flu season. You can give this herb in capsule form or added to soup.
Note: This herb should not be given if a fever or any other signs of infection are present.
American ginseng helps to boost the immune system and strengthen the body. Give your child one dose, in capsule form or in soup, once or twice a week, during the winter months.
Echinacea and goldenseal combination formula stimulates the immune system and helps keep the body clear of infections. A liquid extract is the preferred form. You can give your child one dose, twice weekly, during the flu season.
Give your child one dose of homeopathic Anas barbariae each week or every other week during the flu season.
Make it a rule to feed your child a low-sweet
diet and no fried foods. During the flu season, prepare lots of vegetable and
astragalus soup to help boost her immune system (see THERAPEUTIC RECIPES).
A child under emotional stress may fall ill more easily. Talk out problems and be supportive of your child during times of emotional turmoil.
Physical stress can also create bodily imbalances that make a child's body more vulnerable to illness. Exposure to dust and chemicals, too much sugar and/or fat in the diet, even sudden and extreme temperature changes may add to your child's susceptibility to illness.
Vitamin C and bioflavonoids, taken daily, help to prevent colds and flu. Give your child 150 milligrams of each daily during the cold season.