Flu is Spreading—Here’s How to Keep Your Child Safe! 🦠💉

The Flu is Going Around—Here’s How to Protect Your Little One!

Author

Dr. Nisa Khalil
February 20, 2025

Hey Mama & Papa,

It feels like everywhere we turn, we’re hearing about the flu—Japan’s outbreak, avian flu in the US, and heartbreaking reports of flu-related deaths. Naturally, as parents, we worry. And now, with kids back in school, it’s even more important to stay informed and take steps to protect them.

So today, I’m breaking it down for you—what’s happening, what to watch for, and how to keep your little one safe. Let’s dive in!

👶 3 Real-Life Stories (Because You’re Not Alone!)

💡 “I thought it was just a normal fever.” – A mom brought her 4-year-old in, thinking he had a regular viral fever. But his high fever, cough, and extreme tiredness pointed to influenza. A flu swab confirmed it, and we started early treatment—within days, he was back to his playful self!

💡 “My son has asthma—how worried should I be?” – A dad was anxious because his son, who has asthma, caught the flu. The truth is, flu can worsen breathing problems in kids with asthma. With the right early care and preventive flu vaccination, his child recovered without complications.

💡 “But my child had the flu shot last year!” – A parent was surprised to learn that flu vaccines need to be taken every year. Why? Because flu viruses change every season! A fresh shot means better protection against the latest strains.

✍️ 2 Pediatrician-Approved Tips

✔️ Flu or just a cold? The flu hits suddenly with high fever, body aches, and exhaustion. Colds? They come on gradually and are usually milder.
✔️ Keep sick kids at home. Flu spreads easily, especially in schools. Rest, hydration, and early treatment are key to recovery!

🚨 Flu Symptoms in Kids – What to Watch For!

✅ Fever (often high)
✅ Cough & Sore Throat
✅ Runny or Stuffy Nose
✅ Fatigue & Body Aches

In some cases, influenza can lead to serious complications like pneumonia or worsening asthma symptoms.

💉 Prevention is key! The annual flu vaccine helps reduce the risk of severe illness—especially for young kids, pregnant moms, and those with underlying conditions.

❌ Flu Myths vs. Facts!

There’s a lot of misinformation out there about the flu, so let’s clear up some common myths!

🚫 MYTH: “The flu vaccine can give you the flu.”
✅ FACT: The vaccine contains an inactivated virus—it cannot cause the flu! Some mild side effects (like low-grade fever or soreness) are normal and temporary.

🚫 MYTH: “My child had the flu shot but still got sick—so it doesn’t work.”
✅ FACT: The flu vaccine helps reduce severity. Even if your child gets the flu, it’s likely to be milder and with fewer complications.

🚫 MYTH: “Antibiotics can help treat the flu.”
✅ FACT: Flu is caused by a virus, not bacteria—so antibiotics won’t work! Treatment focuses on rest, fluids, and fever management.

🐦 1 Quick Takeaway (Easy to Remember!)

"The flu is back, and prevention is everything! 💉 Keep little ones safe with:
🦠 Annual flu shots
🧼 Frequent handwashing
🏡 Rest if sick—don’t send them to school!
Stay safe, stay informed. 💜 #FluPrevention #DrNisaKhalil"

🔗 Let’s Keep the Awareness Going!

I also shared an Instagram post on this topic with more tips and details—check it out here!

📌 See the full post on IG: 👉

Need Trusted Pediatric Care? I’m Here for You!

If your child is showing flu symptoms or if you have questions about flu shots, come see me at Dr. Nisa Khalil - Child Specialist Clinic in KL & PJ.

📍 Location: ParkCity Medical Centre
🌐 Website: www.drnisakhalil.com

A big thank you to team @makchic for collaborating to spread awareness on this important issue. Let’s work together to keep our little ones safe and healthy! 💜

Let’s Stay Connected!

I share daily parenting tips, expert advice, and updates on child health. Let’s connect! 👇

Parenting is tough, but you’re not alone. Sending you all good health and peace of mind! 💜

With love & care,

Dr. Nisa Khalil 🩺🧸

Your Trusted Pediatrician within Klang Valley and Beyond

drnisakhalil.com