How to help your little ones when they are sick
Advice for parents and caregivers this cold and flu season.
We know having a sick child at home can be scary. Here are some tips to help get through this winter.
Before heading to the emergency room, try booking an appointment with your family doctor or at your local COVID, Cold and Flu Clinics for non-emergency situations.
Take your child to an emergency room if they are experiencing severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing. If you’re unsure if you need to take your child to the emergency room, you can:
- Call your doctor or primary care provider.
- Call Health Connect Ontario at 811 or chat online with a nurse 24/7.
- Use the SickKids online symptom checker.
If you need help managing symptoms at home, access these fever and cough resources for parents.
We know that finding fever-reducing medicine can be stressful these days, so if your local pharmacy shelves don't have what you're looking for, you can call a compounding pharmacy, which can make medication for your child. Find a compounding pharmacy near you.
Continue to practice protective measures, this includes:
- Get a flu shot and a COVID-19 booster, if eligible.
- Stay home when sick.
- Wear a mask in indoor public spaces and at home if you are sick and around the most vulnerable (e.g. young children and the elderly).
- Wash or sanitize your hands frequently and regularly clean high touch surfaces.
- Cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve or elbow, not your hand.
- Family doctor tips.
