Influenza (commonly called the Flu) is a respiratory infection of the nose, throat, and the main airways to the lungs. It typically begins with a high Fever, body aches, runny or stuffy nose, headache, fatigue, and/or sore throat. If your child doesn't have a fever with early symptoms, it is unlikely to be the flu. Flu outbreaks typically occur during the winter and early spring months but can vary based on the year and in different areas of the country.

The flu can cause significant coughing and congestion. In some cases, this can lead to pneumonia. With children that do end up with pneumonia, additional support for your kiddo may be needed.

The following are signs of severe Flu:

• A fever beyond 5 days
• Labored breathing or retractions: This is when the skin between the ribs, and/or above and below the ribcage gets sucked in when kiddos are breathing.
• Low level of responsiveness

Additionally:

• Congestion
• Cough
• Dehydration
• Difficulty breathing 
• Frequent waking during the night 
• Infants who are feeding will likely have difficulty, and often appear sleepy and/or irritable.
• Pain/Discomfort
• Wheezing

It's important to seek medical attention once severe symptoms appear or you notice significant changes in your child's wellness so that a proper evaluation can be conducted. Most cases are not severe.

The flu is a virus that is very common in certain months throughout the year. It can vary in severity depending on the conditions your kiddo may have prior to the infection of the virus itself. Viral illnesses typically resolve on their own, and do not require medications such as antibiotics to resolve. Most children recover well with rest and medications to treat symptoms. In some cases, the flu can be treated with antivirals to shorten the duration of the illness and decrease risks of complications.  

Children younger than 2 years old can be impacted by complications such as pneumonia and dehydration more than other age groups. The flu can also make preexisting chronic health conditions worse, such as asthma. Infants under 2 months of age with a fever of 100.4 or more should be evaluated in the emergency room. Young babies and premature babies should be monitored closely for signs of respiratory distress.

The flu is a virus that takes rest, fluids, and time to get over in order to make a full recovery. Most older, generally healthy children and adults recover easily from influenza without complications, and keeping them comfortable during their symptoms is the mainstay of treatment. For those that have underlying health conditions that may put them at risk for complications from the flu, they should see their primary care provider as soon as possible if they suspect they have influenza, since antiviral medications may be indicated.

The flu is caused by infection from viral particles via contact or inhalation. Close contact with someone who is infected is the most likely source of transmission. It may also be picked up from contaminated surfaces. 

The severity varies from year to year. The flu is spread by coughing, sneezing, and touching contaminated surfaces that have the virus on them. The virus can live on surfaces for a short amount of time, so if someone who coughed into their hands touches a doorknob or children's toy without washing their hands first, these surfaces become contaminated.

The first step is supportive care at home and continued monitoring for worsening symptoms. Make an appointment to get a flu test done to confirm the cause of the symptoms, especially if your child has underlying health conditions that may put them at higher risk of complications or severe disease.

Supportive care at home & antiviral medications or treating symptoms with over-the-counter medications.

• If your child is under two months old and has a fever of 100.4 or more.
• You have difficulty waking your child up or they are not alert when awake. 
• Your child is very weak.
• They have a bluish or grey color to their lips or face.

• If your child is between 2 and 3 months with a fever of 100.4.
• If your child is between 2 and 3 months and you suspect dehydration. Signs of dehydration would be less than 6-11 diapers in 24hrs.
• If your child is older and out of diapers. Signs of dehydration would be no urine for over 8hrs.
• Fever longer than 5 days in children over 3 months.
• A cough that persists for longer than 2 weeks.
• Your child has difficulty breathing.

Most flu infections resolve at-home with supportive care in about 1 week. A runny nose is common for 7-14 days. If fever occurs, it generally lasts 2-3 days but can last up to 4-5. The worst of the symptoms typically peak around day 3-4, then start to gradually improve.

Many children may continue to cough even after recovering. This is commonly referred to as a “post-viral cough,” and could linger for up to 2 weeks, or occasionally longer in some children. After they have fully recovered, the cough should not be treated as a sign of ongoing infection, but for any children with an ongoing cough, it may be helpful to have them evaluated as a precaution.

The CDC does not recommend anti-viral medications for low-risk children with normal influenza. Your child does not need to see their doctor unless they have possible complications from the flu, the reasons for a visit listed above, or if you have concerns.