Influenza Symptoms in Children

Influenza, also known as the flu, is caused by a virus. The flu is extremely contagious and occurs mostly between the months of October and May (also known as flu season), with the highest incidence between December and March. Symptoms of the flu are universal and are similar in adults and children.

Fever

• Children with the flu generally have temperatures that are high, ranging from 102 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit, and that last from two to four days.

Onset

• Flu symptoms can appear very suddenly. A child that feels fine in the morning may be very sick by the end of the day.

Aches

• Headaches, aching muscles, chills and stiff joints are common in children with the flu.

Coughs

• Dry coughs are usually present in children with the flu and are unlike the productive coughs that are more common in individuals with a cold.

Fatigue

• The flu is associated with extreme tiredness, and can leave your child feeling weak and fatigued for up to three weeks.