The flu (influenza) is a contagious respiratory illness that affects children and can lead to symptoms such as fever, chills, cough, sore throat, body aches, fatigue, chills/sweats, headache and eye pain. The flu makes you feel much worse than the common cold, while the symptoms can be similar, the flu usually comes on suddenly while the common cold usually develops slowly. Influenza is not the same as the stomach “flu” viruses that cause diarrhea and vomiting. Children, particularly those under the age of five, are more vulnerable to severe complications from the flu, such as pneumonia, dehydration and exacerbation of underlying conditions like asthma. The flu is spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, making it important for children to practice good hygiene, like frequent handwashing, and to avoid close contact with sick individuals.
Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent the flu and its complications. Pediatricians recommend that children over six months of age receive an annual flu vaccine, which helps protect them from the most common strains of the virus. If a child does contract the flu, antiviral medications may be prescribed to reduce the severity and duration of symptoms, especially if given early in the course of the illness. In addition to medication, supportive care such as rest, fluids and fever-reducing medications can help manage symptoms. It’s important for parents to monitor their child's condition closely and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or if the child experiences difficulty breathing, persistent high fever or confusion. With appropriate care, most children recover from the flu within a week or two.