Pediatrics: What to Do When a Child Has ARVI

Acute respiratory viral infections (ARVI) are one of the most common reasons parents consult a pediatrician. ARVI in children can present with a variety of symptoms, ranging from a runny nose and cough to fever and fatigue. Proper treatment and care for a sick child help minimize complications and speed up recovery. This article explores the key aspects of diagnosing, treating, and preventing ARVI in children based on evidence-based medicine principles.

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What Is ARVI?

ARVI is a group of infectious diseases caused by various viruses, such as rhinoviruses, adenoviruses, influenza, and parainfluenza viruses. These viruses affect the upper respiratory tract and spread via airborne droplets.

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Main Causes of ARVI in Children

1. Contact with sick children in daycare or school.
2. Poor hygiene, especially after visiting public places.
3. Weakened immunity due to stress, poor nutrition, or chronic illnesses.

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Symptoms of ARVI in Children

ARVI in children can manifest with a range of symptoms, including:

• Elevated body temperature: usually between 37.5–39°C (99.5–102.2°F).
• Runny nose and nasal congestion.
• Cough: ranging from dry to productive.
• Sore throat: often accompanied by difficulty swallowing.
• General weakness and fatigue.
• Loss of appetite.
• Headache.
• Rarely: vomiting or diarrhea caused by viral intoxication.

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Diagnosis of ARVI

The diagnosis is based on clinical presentation, a physical examination, and symptom analysis. In some cases, the doctor may recommend additional tests:

1. Complete blood count to rule out bacterial infections.
2. Virological tests to identify the type of virus.
3. Chest X-rays if complications like pneumonia are suspected.

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What to Do When a Child Has ARVI?

1. Ensure Rest
   The sick child should stay in a comfortable and calm environment. Rest helps the body focus on fighting the virus.
2. Encourage Plenty of Fluids
   Water, tea, compotes, and fruit drinks help prevent dehydration and flush out toxins. Keeping the mucous membranes hydrated improves the child’s overall condition.
3. Reduce Fever
   For temperatures above 38°C (100.4°F), antipyretics containing paracetamol or ibuprofen are recommended. Avoid aspirin in children due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome.
4. Symptomatic Treatment
   • Nasal drops with saline solution to ease breathing.
   • Inhalations with saline or herbal decoctions to moisturize airways.
   • Lozenges or gargles for a sore throat.
5. Isolation
   Limiting contact with other children prevents the virus from spreading.

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What Not to Do When Treating ARVI

• Antibiotics: They are ineffective against viruses and should only be prescribed for confirmed bacterial infections.
• Strong antitussives: These can suppress the natural process of clearing the airways.
• Self-medication: All medications should be prescribed by a doctor.

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Prevention of ARVI

1. Boost Immunity
   • Regular hardening and physical activity.
   • A balanced diet rich in vitamins and micronutrients.
   • Use of multivitamins during epidemics.
2. Practice Hygiene
   • Regular hand washing with soap.
   • Use of antiseptics in public places.
3. Vaccination
   Flu vaccines help reduce the risk of severe ARVI cases.
4. Maintain Humidity
   Keeping the humidity at 40–60% in the child’s room reduces the risk of mucosal dryness.

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When to See a Doctor

Parents should seek medical help immediately if:

• The fever persists for more than 3 days.
• The child has difficulty breathing.
• A rash appears that does not fade under pressure.
• The child is lethargic and refuses food and drink.
• Symptoms worsen despite treatment.

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Conclusion

ARVI in children is a common but generally mild condition when medical advice is followed, and proper care is provided. The focus should be on symptom relief, boosting immunity, and preventing complications.

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Statistics on ARVI in Children

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), up to 90% of all infectious diseases in children are acute respiratory viral infections (ARVI). During seasonal epidemics, the incidence rate can reach 30% of the pediatric population. Children under the age of 5 may experience ARVI up to 6–8 times a year, due to the immaturity of their immune systems.

Studies conducted in Russia indicate that ARVI ranks first among the reasons for pediatric consultations, accounting for approximately 60% of all visits. While most ARVI cases are mild, up to 15% result in complications, such as sinusitis, otitis media, or bronchitis, particularly when improperly treated.

Hospitalization Risks

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, around 2–3% of children with ARVI require hospitalization due to complications such as pneumonia, severe dehydration, or breathing difficulties.

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Sources of Information

1. World Health Organization (WHO) – Overview of statistics and recommendations for managing ARVI in children.
2. American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) – Protocols for diagnosing and treating ARVI.
3. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) – Research on ARVI and associated complications.