How to Care for Your Child During Respiratory Virus Season

Updated December 29th, 2023

Having a sick child can be scary. Know what symptoms to watch for, how to provide care and comfort at home, and when to seek help — it’s all part of providing good KidCare!

At an emergency department, the sickest patients are always seen first. Less sick patients will have to wait for care. Depending on your child’s symptoms, you may be able to provide care at home, or be seen faster by your doctor or a walk-in clinic or urgent care centre. When deciding where to go, consider these cold and flu symptoms to determine whether your child needs emergency care.

Learn more about symptoms that should lead to a visit to emergency and those that can be cared for at home or elsewhere at KidCareMB.ca.

Not sure where to go?

Call Health Links – Info Santé at 204-788-8200 or 1-888-315-9257
Visit Shared Health’s “Where to Go” page for a list of health of services in your community.
In an emergency, call 9-1-1 or your local emergency number.

Vaccination

All children in Manitoba aged six months and older can get COVID and flu vaccines.
Keeping your kids up to date on vaccinations can prevent them from getting sick. There are many locations across the province where they can be immunized, and we have an online map to help you find a spot that is convenient.
Book Now — ProtectMB.ca and Protect Our People MB

Fevers?

Fever is not dangerous. It is the body’s natural response to infections and actually helps to fight infection.
Higher temperatures do not mean the infection is more serious, and a fever on its own does not require medical attention in most children.*
You do not need to treat fever with medicine. Cool your child by dressing them in light clothing, offering extra fluids, and keeping the room cool.

*Children under 3 months of age and those with chronic health conditions should be seen if a fever develops.

See, Kids Fevers: What to know, when to get help.