Think your student has the flu or RSV? Look for these signs.

Both the flu and respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, are hitting children sooner and harder this year. Kristen and health reporter Alexis Allison spoke to a Cook Children’s doctor about both and how to protect your children. Alexis and Kristen both reported that the COVID-19 pandemic precautions meant less children getting RSV and the flu the past couple of years. But this year, children started getting these viruses in October and November, and the cases are overwhelming hospitals. Here’s what parents should look for when deciding if a child might need a doctor visit or emergency room care with RSV: If the child has a cough or congestion, see a family pediatrician.  If the child is dehydrated or struggling to breathe, go to the emergency room. Here’s what parents should look for when deciding if a child might need a doctor visit or emergency room care with the flu: Symptoms like low-grade fevers, stuffy nose and no signs of stress or dehydration can be seen by a pediatrician. If your child is showing signs of difficulty breathing, dehydration and a persistent fever of over 100.5, they should be taken to the hospital. Doctors encourage everyone to get their flu shot and the COVID-19 vaccine. There is not a vaccine for RSV yet.

Read about RSV   Read about the flu