Burlington hospital offers advice about health care options for sick children

As Burlington and surrounding communities continue to see a surge in respiratory viruses such as COVID-19, influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), it’s important for families to know their health care options so they can get the care they or their family members need.

There are important steps that parents can take if their child is experiencing symptoms such as fever, runny nose, cough, headaches and chills, said Dr. Laura Waltman, chief of Pediatrics at Joseph Brant Hospital (JBH).

“Many of these symptoms can be managed at home with supportive care and over-the-counter medications such as Tylenol and Advil,” she said.

“It’s normal for a child’s appetite to decrease when they’re ill. What’s important is that they are drinking well and staying hydrated.”

If accessing these medications is a challenge, parents can call Health Connect Ontario (8-1-1) and speak to a healthcare professional, or seek the advice of a pharmacist, said Dr. Sunita Goel, a Burlington family physician and co-lead of the Burlington Community Physician Council (BCPC) to the Burlington Ontario Health Team.

“If there is no improvement in symptoms after 48-72 hours, or symptoms worsen – including earaches and loss of appetite – it’s best to check with your health professional. Also, anyone with underlying health conditions should seek treatment.”

If severe symptoms develop – such as breathing with difficulty, unable to drink or breast feed, having difficulty waking up – call 9-1-1 or go to the Emergency Department.

But prevention is key, said Dr. Joe Cherian, chief of Emergency Medicine at JBH.

“We encourage everyone to take steps to avoid getting and spreading infections, such as staying up-to-date with their COVID-19 and flu vaccinations, washing their hands often and wearing a mask when out in crowded, public indoor spaces,” he said.

For more information and resources, go to the JBH website.