15 Month Old has flu, not interested in BFing...

[~Caitlyn~]

Hi.... I'm a nervous Mommy, first time with a throwing up kiddo :(

Her little school has a stomach bug/flu outbreak, 27 kids and 6 teachers have gotten sick over the last two days. My DD came home today, after they called to tell me she was throwing up :(  Shockingly 30 mins after we got home, the County Health Dept called and requested a sample of stool from us, I agreed. Apparently the school reported the 'outbreak.' She hasn't pooped yet... 

She can't keep down water, or pedialyte, and my otherwise avid nurser hasn't shown any interest at all. I offered once, and she nursed thirstily... then 30 mins later she was throwing up again (big time). 

I'm conflicted because I generally feel that 'on demand' is the best way - and I don't want to force breastfeeding if her body isn't queueing her... but, also know that BM holds so many healing attributes... should I encourage her to nurse, or let her tell me when she's ready?

Also, we have been trying to give her small amounts of pedialyte in a sippy, which she gulps down, and cries when it is gone... she seems so thirsty, but I a, afraid if I let her drink too much she'll lose it all?

Thanks! 

[MsFortune]

Flu can be very serious, and mostly serious because kids dehydrate so quickly. Not trying to be a panicmonger - but it is important that she stay hydrated.  

So I would give her pedialyte if that is what she wants to drink and offer breast and keep pushing it on her.