Flu season has hit Arkansas hard this year, with schools across the state reporting record-high absentee rates due to influenza A (H3N2 and H1N1) infections. The Arkansas Department of Health reports that flu-like illnesses have surged, with over 9% of students absent daily due to sickness. Some schools have even closed temporarily to slow the virus’s spread.
For parents, this raises important questions: How can I protect my child? What should I do if they get sick? When should I seek medical care?
At My Kids Pediatric Clinic by Healthy Connections, our expert pediatricians and APRNs are here to help families navigate this severe flu season with trusted medical advice, flu vaccinations, and expert pediatric care.
Why Is This Flu Season So Severe?
According to the Arkansas Department of Health’s Viral Respiratory Diseases Weekly Report, flu activity is at a high level statewide. The predominant strains, Influenza A (H3N2 and H1N1), are known to cause more severe illness in children and can lead to hospitalizations, secondary infections, and prolonged school absences.
Current flu statistics in Arkansas (as of late January 2025):
- Flu-related hospitalizations are increasing, particularly among children.
- The average flu test positivity rate is above 14% for Influenza A H3N2 and 13% for Influenza A H1N1.
- The statewide absenteeism rate in schools due to flu-like illnesses has risen to 9.64%.
These numbers are alarming, but parents can take action now to help keep their children safe and reduce flu spread in their communities.
How Can Parents Protect Their Kids from the Flu?
Pediatric experts at My Kids Pediatric Clinic by Healthy Connections recommend the following flu prevention strategies:
1. Get Your Child a Flu Vaccine (It’s Not Too Late!)
- The annual flu vaccine reduces the risk of severe illness and hospitalization.
- The 2024-2025 flu shot is well-matched to this season’s flu strains, providing strong protection against both H3N2 and H1N1.
- Flu vaccines are recommended for all children aged 6 months and older.
My Kids Pediatric Clinic and Healthy Connections locations offer flu shots—call 888-710-8220 to schedule an appointment today.
2. Teach Proper Handwashing and Hygiene
- Encourage children to wash hands frequently with soap and warm water.
- Remind kids to cover coughs and sneezes with their elbow, not their hands.
- Regularly disinfect common surfaces, including doorknobs, desks, and toys.
3. Keep Sick Kids Home
- If your child has a fever over 100.4°F, body aches, sore throat, cough, or fatigue, keep them home for at least 24 hours after their fever subsides (without medication).
- Avoid unnecessary public exposure, including school, daycare, and extracurricular activities.
When Should You See a Doctor?
The pediatric providers at My Kids Pediatric Clinic urge parents to seek medical care if their child experiences:
- Severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, or persistent high fever.
- Dehydration, marked by no urination for 8+ hours, dry mouth, or no tears when crying.
- Worsening symptoms after appearing to improve (possible secondary infections like pneumonia).
If your child is sick and you need guidance, call 888-710-8220 to speak with our pediatric specialists or schedule a same-day appointment.
Flu Treatment: What You Can Do at Home
If your child has mild to moderate flu symptoms, here’s how to help them recover:
- Keep them hydrated with water, broth, or electrolyte drinks.
- Provide fever-reducing medications (acetaminophen or ibuprofen—never aspirin for children).
- Ensure plenty of rest and nutritious foods to support immune function.
- Use humidifiers and saline drops to relieve nasal congestion.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Parents
Can my child still get the flu after being vaccinated?
Yes, but the flu vaccine significantly reduces the severity and duration of illness, lowering the risk of hospitalization.
How can I tell the difference between the flu, a cold, and COVID-19?
Flu symptoms usually come on suddenly with fever, body aches, and fatigue, while colds develop gradually with mild symptoms. COVID-19 may include loss of taste or smell, which is rare with the flu.
When can my child return to school?
Children should stay home at least 24 hours after their fever is gone (without medication) to avoid spreading the virus.
Should I be concerned if my child isn’t eating much while sick?
Loss of appetite is common with the flu. Keep them hydrated with fluids like broth or electrolyte drinks. If they refuse fluids and show signs of dehydration, seek medical help.
What should I do if my child has asthma or another underlying condition?
Children with asthma, diabetes, or weakened immune systems are at higher risk for flu complications. Contact your pediatric provider at My Kids Pediatric Clinic for guidance.
Final Takeaway: Protect Your Family Now
This flu season is hitting Arkansas schools hard, but parents can take proactive steps to protect their children. Getting a flu shot, practicing good hygiene, and seeking timely medical care can make a significant difference.
At My Kids Pediatric Clinic by Healthy Connections, we specialize in pediatric flu prevention, treatment, and expert guidance for parents.
➡ Call 888-710-8220 or visit www.mykidspediatric.com to schedule a flu shot or pediatric appointment today.
By staying informed and taking action, you can help keep your child healthy and prevent further flu outbreaks in our schools and communities.
