Final answer:
Children with recent viral illnesses should not be given aspirin due to the risk of Reye's Syndrome, which can cause fatal brain and liver swelling. Aspirin and products containing it should be avoided in children under 19, and parents should read medication labels carefully and consult with pediatricians for appropriate treatments.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct answer to whether kids with recent viral illness can be given aspirin is false. Aspirin should not be used to treat viral illnesses in children younger than 19 years due to the risk of Reye's Syndrome, which can cause severe brain and liver swelling and can be fatal. Products containing aspirin include many over-the-counter cold medicines, so it's important to read labels carefully.
Reye's Syndrome is a rare but serious condition that has been linked with the use of aspirin in children and teenagers following viral infections. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration requires a warning about Reye's syndrome on all aspirin and aspirin-containing products since 1988. Symptoms of Reye's syndrome can include vomiting, confusion, seizures, and loss of consciousness.
It is always recommended that parents consult with their pediatrician for the appropriate treatment when their children are sick. Alternatives to aspirin such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen are often recommended for treating fevers or pain in children.