This year's flu virus really got children and adults really sick to the point that symptoms are lasting more than 2 to 3 weeks.  Although, we are familiar with the main flu symptoms such as sneezing, dry cough, chills, and body aches, other symptoms on the horizon were extreme fatigue, nausea, headaches, and fevers. It almost sounds like this flu virus decided to merge with Covid which made the symptoms last weeks versus days. At least that how it felt for some people including myself! 

Like most parents, my son experienced a dry cough that later merge into active flu symptoms. He experienced body aches with rising body temperatures. One of the most important things to observe in a child is to prevent high peaking fevers that can lead to further health complications. So, as a parent it is very important to have a thermometer device at home to check for body temperature updates. If your child gets a fever between 100°F to 104°F call the child's primary care doctor and also request to speak to a nurse to discuss health updates. 

According to Medlifeguide, Common Flu Symptoms in 2026:

How Flu Spreads

Primary Transmission Routes

• Respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing
• close person to person contact
• Contact with contaminated surfaces followed by mucosal exposure

• Core Symptoms 
• Sudden fever (often 100°F–104°F)
• Chills and sweating 
• Dry and productive cough
• Sore throat
• Runny nose or stuffy nose
• Severe fatigue 
• Muscle and joint pain
• headache 

As a mother there were several things I had to do for my son during his illness: change him to cool clothing only, prevent using heavy blankets, and change the room temperature. Other items to have ready were homemade chicken and lentil soup, clear liquids to prevent dehydration, light snacks, maty's chest rub, raw honey, zarbees children cough syrup (made with ingredients such as honey, elderberry, and ivy leaf). During a child's illness phase, it is most likely the parent will also get sick, so be ready to have necessary items to help treat symptoms and rest. (Which I know as a parent is almost nearly impossible, but if your child takes a nap, so should you.) 

As my son's fever and body aches got better, one persistent symptom that lingered was his cough that lasted at least 2-3 weeks which was then was followed up by a pediatrician visit to check if his lungs were okay and make sure there were no other underlying issues going on.  

Luckily my son and I recovered and were able to get back to our regular schedules. Below I have shared some helpful items to keep around your home, but you can always research for alternative products that might be more suitable to your needs. sd

1. Have a thermometer at home and one that I really like is the Kinsa Quick Care. This thermometer is a personalized one based on age, fever and symptoms. Plus, I like that it connects and records data into the phone app to check illness timelines

2. Maty's Vapor Rub for Adults and Kids is a wellness product free petroleum 

3. lolleez-children-s-organic-throat-soothing-pops-watermelon-strawberry-orange-mango is a great way to alleviate sore throat symptoms in little ones especially if you have a hard time with liquid medication (consult with your primary doctor if concerns with ingredients) 

4. Rest, Sleep, and Stay Indoors. Prevent taking your little ones outdoors or to indoor playgrounds. It's best to recover then relapsing and help prevent spreading germs. 

Once you both heal and feel better get back to your regular schedule. Your body and mind will thank you for taking time to rest, heal, and recover.