The flu advice pharmacists want all new parents to know.

Let's talk about something we've all faced: the dreaded flu season.

Your child’s first bout of the flu is like a rite of passage into parenthood, isn't it? The worry, the sleepless nights, the endless tissues…

When my little one caught the flu for the first time, I felt completely unprepared. I was thrust into this world of fevers and coughs, unsure of what to do or where to turn. And in those first twelve months when my daughter was most vulnerable, it felt really scary too.

But in those moments of uncertainty, we relied heavily on our local pharmacy. With their wealth of knowledge and compassionate advice, they helped us navigate through the storm of sniffles and sneezes.

So, armed with both personal experience and professional insight, I'm here to share the flu advice pharmacists want all new parents to know.

Protecting little ones with free vaccination.

The first line of defence against the flu? The annual flu vaccination. It’s one of the most important steps you can take to protect your child this flu season.

With the flu vaccination recommended for children aged six months and up, this means parents can proactively help their little ones against the seasonal flu threat. Pharmacies like Ramsay Pharmacy make it easier than ever to get protected, offering free flu vaccines for certain at-risk populations. 

Hayley Foruria, registered pharmacist at Ramsay Pharmacy, emphasises the importance of vaccination. 

"Vaccination is key in preventing the spread of the flu, especially among vulnerable populations like infants and young children," she says.

"By ensuring all of your family members get vaccinated, parents not only protect their own family but also contribute to the community's overall immunity and minimise the risk of transmission."

And making sure that all family members are vaccinated helps to create your home's own herd immunity for the newest additions to the family.

As for the best time to get vaccinated? Foruria recommends getting your vaccine in April or May, once yearly stock becomes available, giving your child the best protection before the flu season peaks.

Making a flu vaccination appointment at your local Ramsay Pharmacy means a welcoming (and often less stressful) environment, where they support customers throughout the entire vaccination process.

With a warm and professional team dedicated to providing expert advice and quality products, parents can feel confident in their decision to vaccinate their child against the flu. 

Building immunity.

Along with the flu shot, there are plenty of additional ways to support your child's immunity too. Think healthy meals, lots of shut-eye and maybe even some fun exercise routines.

Because after all, a strong immune system is your best defence against the flu and other nasty bugs.

"Encouraging a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains can provide essential vitamins and minerals that support the immune system," says Foruria.

"Regular exercise and plenty of sleep are also crucial for maintaining overall health and resilience against illness."

Practising good hygiene is also key and if your child is anything like mine, they learn best by copying. 

"Taking time to demonstrate handwashing techniques to your children and explaining the reasons behind why we wash our hands is vital for reducing transmission risk within the family," says Foruria.

"Demonstrate how to cover your mouth when sneezing and coughing — it’s all about creating healthy habits with your children."

These simple actions can go a long way in protecting your child from illness and promoting a lifestyle that supports your child's immune system year-round.

Navigating the symptoms.

But, despite our best efforts, sometimes the flu still manages to sneak past our defences, and that’s okay!

When faced with a sniffling, feverish child, it's important to know what to expect and how to cope.

From soothing baths to plenty of fluids, there are so many ways to help alleviate discomfort and speed up recovery (music to any parent's ears!).

Of course, you can expect to be giving out a lot of cuddles and TLC. But beyond that, keep an eye on your child's temperature and hydration levels.

And if things seem off, don't hesitate to reach out for medical help.

Seeking support.

Whether it's joining a parenting group, reaching out to friends and family or connecting with healthcare professionals, building a supportive network can make all the difference in facing the challenges of flu season.

Connecting with other parents is a great way to stay informed about flu or other virus outbreaks in the community.

I recently experienced this first-hand when a mum from my daughter’s school let me know that her son had unknowingly come to school sick the previous week.

I was able to up the sanitising routine at home, keep an eye on potential symptoms and minimise the risk of transmission should my daughter get sick.

Talk about nipping it in the bud!

So by staying informed and seeking support when needed, you can navigate your child's first experiences with the flu with confidence.

Remember, you're not alone, and there are resources and experts available to help you every step of the way.

Check your family's eligibility and book your flu vaccination appointment at Ramsay Pharmacy online. 

This information is general in nature and does not replace the advice of a healthcare professional. As with any vaccination, always seek health and medical advice from a qualified pharmacist or your healthcare professional.

Feature Image: Getty.