Flu season can be a challenging time for families, especially when children are involved. Parents often find themselves navigating sneezes, fevers, and unexpected doctor visits.
But did you know pediatric urgent care can be an essential resource during this time?
Let us explore how pediatric urgent care facilities are specially equipped to manage flu symptoms effectively.
Understanding Pediatric Urgent Care
Pediatric urgent care centers are healthcare facilities focused on treating non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries in children. Unlike emergency rooms, which handle severe and critical cases, pediatric urgent care specializes in providing quick and effective care for conditions such as the flu, minor injuries, and infections.
If your child is experiencing symptoms like a sudden fever, chills, sore throat, or exhaustion, visiting a facility dedicated to pediatric care is a great first step. By focusing on children’s health, these centers can provide care tailored to your child’s age, size, and developmental needs.
Plus, they usually offer shorter wait times compared to emergency rooms.
When Should You Take Your Child to Pediatric Urgent Care for Flu
While most flu symptoms can be managed at home with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications, there are times when professional medical attention is necessary. Take your child to a pediatric urgent care center if they experience:
- Persistent high fever (over 102°F) that does not respond to medication.
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.
- Severe dehydration (e.g., dry mouth, no tears, or minimal urination).
- Worsening of chronic conditions like asthma.
- Lethargy or unresponsiveness.
If you are unsure about the severity of your child’s symptoms, it is better to seek care than to wait. Prompt action can prevent complications and provide peace of mind.
What Services Do Pediatric Urgent Care Centers Offer for Flu
While each center may vary in offerings, here is what you can typically expect when visiting pediatric urgent care for the flu.
Flu Testing
Flu tests are quick diagnostic tools used to determine if your child has the flu. These tests are often performed by taking a sample from the nose or throat and can provide results within minutes.
Identifying the flu early helps guide proper treatment and care.
Fever Management
Managing a fever involves keeping your child comfortable and reducing their body temperature when necessary. Over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) can help lower a fever.
It is important to follow the recommended dosage based on your child’s age and weight. If the fever persists, gets very high, or is accompanied by other severe symptoms, it may be necessary to seek medical attention from an emergency room.
Hydration and Nutrition Advice
When children have the flu, keeping them hydrated is critical, especially if they are experiencing symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea. Dehydration can worsen their condition.
Encourage them to drink water, electrolyte solutions, or clear broths. Small, frequent sips are often better tolerated. Light, easy-to-digest meals like toast, rice, or applesauce can help maintain energy while being gentle on their stomach.
Prescriptions When Necessary
In some cases, a healthcare provider may prescribe antiviral medications like oseltamivir (Tamiflu). These drugs can help reduce the severity and length of the flu if given within the first 48 hours of symptoms.
Antivirals work by slowing the flu virus’s ability to spread in the body, allowing your child to recover more quickly.
Flu Shots
Pediatric urgent care also keeps your child protected with annual flu shots. Healthcare providers offer quick, hassle-free flu vaccinations to help safeguard your child against common flu strains.
Flu shots protect your child’s health by reducing the risk of severe illness and complications, especially for those at high risk or with underlying health conditions.
By choosing pediatric urgent care for the flu, you are taking an important step in protecting your child’s well-being and supporting a healthier community.
Pediatric Urgent Care for Flu in King, NC
Flu season may feel overwhelming, but with resources like pediatric urgent care, you can manage your child’s symptoms confidently. For immediate and comprehensive care, trust Cardinal Urgent Care in King, NC, to be your partner in your family’s health and wellness.
Our highly trained and skilled providers deliver prompt and individualized care, making sure your child gets back to feeling their best quickly.
For more information, call our office at (336) 983-9111. You can also use our appointment request portal to schedule a consultation with us. For your convenience, we are open 7 days a week. We are even open on many holidays.
We look forward to serving you!
