Influenza in Children

Influenza, commonly called the flu, is an illness caused by the influenza virus. Children most often catch the flu during the flu season months of October through February. The flu can make a child very ill and lead to other illnesses. Children can greatly reduce the chance of getting the flu by getting a flu vaccination.

Symptoms

• A child with the flu will first develop a high fever very suddenly. They may also have chills, fatigue, a dry cough and a runny nose. Some children may also have a sore throat, swollen glands, stomach pain, vomiting and diarrhea.

Duration

• The flu typically last about three to five days but can last for two weeks.

Treatment

• Children with the flu need lots of rest and lots of fluids to drink. If the child will eat solid food, try soup. A pain and fever reducer such as Tylenol or Motrin may help the fever come down and also help alleviate bodyaches.

Secondary Conditions

• Sometimes children with the flu may develop pneumonia, bronchitis or an ear infection. These conditions will also need to be treated.

Prevention

• Flu shots are available for anyone aged 6 months of older. It is recommended that everyone in the household get the flu shot at the start of flu season.