Flu Season Returns: Recognizing Influenza and Protecting Your Family
What is the flu?
Influenza is making its way through our community again. Each year around this time, the flu virus shows up and causes challenges for many of us. At the national level, the impact is significant - resulting in adult work absences, school absences for children, widespread illness, and an increase in secondary bacterial infections. About 40%of children who end up hospitalized do not have any underlying chronic medical problems. The good news is it’s possible to overcome this illness if recognized and treat-ed properly.
Common Flu Symptoms in Children
Early Flu Symptoms
- Chills
- Headache
- Body aches
- Dry cough
Symptoms That May Develop Later
About one to two days after getting sick your child may experience a runny nose with a more productive cough. Less commonly, patients may experience an up-set stomach, abdominal dis-comfort, or occasional vomiting.
How Long Does the Flu Last?
Fevers can last four to five days, and the viral illness may take seven to 10 days to run its course.
When to Seek Medical Care for the Flu
If symptoms haven’t improved by day 14, or you experience shortness of breath or labored breathing, a high fever, confusion or sudden dizziness, further evaluation is recommended. At that point, there is a concern of secondary bacterial infections like sinusitis, bronchi-tis, pneumonia and ear infections. Dehydration is always a concern as well, especially at the beginning of the illness.
Treatment and Supportive Care for Influenza
Supportive care is key: drink plenty of fluids, take Tylenol or ibuprofen for fever and aches, rest and use a humidifier to soothe your throat. If symptoms are caught within 24–48 hours, antivirals like Tamiflu may help. Usually, children will start to show improvement of their symptoms within 24 to 48 hours of starting Tamiflu. In addition, research on the medicine showed fewer bacterial complications when children took an antiviral medicine.
Preventing the Flu
Prevention remains the best approach, with the flu vaccine leading the way. The good news is that we can still help our children get better from the flu.
References:
The Flu: What Parents Need to Know - HealthyChildren.org
Influenza (Flu) | Influenza (Flu) | CDC
