03/04/2026
This week I am still seeing lots of flu. It has not been uncommon for them to have 5-8 days of feeling miserable with 102-104 fevers. Common symptoms: cough, runny nose, watery eyes, viral rash, vomiting, diarrhea, and mild leg pain. While fevers do have a job in illness, treating kids who feel very ill (often over 101.5-102), does help them drink and eat better. Fever reducers should decrease temp by at least 0.5-1 degree. They may not bring it down to 98.9 and that is okay. It is very important to keep kiddos hydrated during illness and with fevers. Bone broths & water along with electrolytes. Berry-lyte is a great more natural and dye free option. Electrolytes and sugar are super important when they are sick and not eating. Frequent sips are easier than getting them to chug liquids. They do not eat much, but must drink plenty. While I love epsom salt baths when sick, watch the water temp. You want it lower than their body temp so that it is helping cool them down. However, cool to your touch will be freezing to them and they will not enjoy it. Definitely seek emergency care if they have a fever going up even with medication, are lethargic or confused, refuse to walk because their legs hurt so badly, are not drinking, have dark urine or not peeing enough, have trouble breathing, or have other symptoms you feel need immediate assessment.
