Jason Ankumah-Saikoom, MD, Pediatrician at Southwest Health

As Influenza A spreads through southwest Wisconsin, many families are facing a surge in seasonal illnesses, including colds, flu, and ear infections. With children particularly vulnerable, parents may find it difficult to know when to manage symptoms at home and when to seek medical care.

While colds and the flu share some symptoms, the flu tends to hit harder and faster. A child with a cold may have a mild sore throat, runny nose, and occasional cough, but they generally remain active and recover within a few days. The flu, on the other hand, often comes on suddenly with a high fever, body aches, chills, and exhaustion that can leave a child wanting to stay in bed without much energy. A lingering, deep cough is also common with Influenza A, and some children may experience vomiting or diarrhea.

For most, the best course of action is rest, hydration, and symptom relief. Keeping a child home from school or daycare allows their immune system to fight the virus while also preventing the spread to others. Three tips that help with managing symptoms and providing comfort include:

1. Plenty of fluids—such as water, broth, or electrolyte drinks—help keep them hydrated, especially if they have a fever.
2. Over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help with fever and body aches, but aspirin should be avoided in children.
3. Running a humidifier and using saline drops can ease congestion, and for younger children, gentle suction may help clear nasal passages.

However, some cases require medical attention. Parents should contact their child’s primary care provider or pediatrician if a child experiences difficulty breathing, a persistent high fever lasting more than three days, extreme fatigue, or signs of dehydration such as dry lips, no tears, or fewer wet diapers. Children with underlying health conditions like asthma or weakened immune systems are at higher risk for flu complications and should be monitored closely.

Another concern this time of year is ear infections, which frequently develop after a cold or flu, particularly in younger children. Symptoms may include ear pain, trouble sleeping, fussiness, and fluid drainage from the ear. While some ear infections clear up on their own, persistent pain or worsening symptoms should be evaluated by a doctor.

With Influenza A hitting our region hard, prevention remains key. The flu vaccine is the best way to reduce the risk of severe illness, and it’s not too late to get one. Frequent handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, and keeping sick children home until they have been fever-free for at least 24 hours without medication can also help slow the spread.

If you have concerns about your child’s symptoms, don’t hesitate to contact a healthcare provider. Southwest Health’s Family Medicine team is here to help—call (608) 348-4330 to schedule an appointment at the Platteville or Darlington clinic. Taking proactive steps now can help keep children and the community healthier throughout the flu season.

Recently joining the team is Dr. Jason Ankumah-Saikoom. Dr. Jason is a board-certified pediatrician with over a decade of experience delivering compassionate, patient-centered care in both outpatient and inpatient settings, managing the care of patients up to age 21 across a variety of settings, from clinic visits to hospital stays. Dr. Jason is deeply committed to the health and well-being of their patients, fostering trust through compassionate care and open communication with families. He sees pediatric patients in both the Darlington and Platteville clinic, making it easier to be seen and get back to feeling better.

To establish care, call Southwest Health Family Medicine at (608) 348-4330 for either the Platteville or Darlington Clinic. You can trust Dr. Jason and Southwest Health to keep your child happy, healthy, and thriving—call today to schedule an appointment!