Tips to care for your kids when they get the flu

The flu can wipe out even a healthy grownup, so it's not a surprise what it can do to kids.

29 children in the U.S. have already died from the flu this year including one child in Maryland.

Kids needs a lot of care when they get the flu. They're dealing with a fever, muscle aches, sometimes even vomiting and diarrhea.

Here are some ways to treat those symptoms to help your child feel better.

If your kid has a fever, acetaminophen and ibuprofen can help bring it down. But never give your child aspirin because it can cause a rare but serious illness.

Do not bundle your kid up with extra layers or a blanket, even if they have the chills. This will keep their fever from going down or it might make it worse. Try a lukewarm bath instead.

A sick child will usually not want to eat. But try to keep them hydrated as much as possible with lots of water. Popsicles and warm soup may be good alternatives.

If your child has other medical conditions like asthma, an anti-viral treatment may be needed.

It's important to see your doctor right away because an anti-viral needs to be given in the first 48 hours to be effective.

You should take your child to the ER if they have no tears when crying, that's often a sign of dehydration.

Also, if your child is getting better but then the fever and flu symptoms return, they could be dealing with a secondary infection that needs to be checked out.