By Children’s Health | Contributor
Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by a viral infection that impacts the lungs, mouth, and throat. It is important to note that it is different from stomach flu, which is caused by viruses affecting the gastrointestinal tract.
Germs can be transmitted through coughing, sneezing, or by touching the mouth, eyes, or nose. The flu virus can be contagious starting 24 hours before symptoms appear and can remain infectious for 5 to 7 days following the onset of illness.
Flu prevention tips
The most effective way to protect against the flu is to ensure that everyone in your household (aged over 6 months) receives the flu vaccine. Here are more tips to promote family health during flu season:
– Practice good hand hygiene with soap and water or hand sanitizer
– Cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing
– Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth, as germs spread easily this way
– Try to keep a safe distance from individuals who are sick
– Stay home from school, work, and errands if you are unwell
– Clean and disinfect surfaces regularly
Myth: Busted
“I heard my child could get the flu from the flu vaccine. Is that true?”
No. The injectable flu vaccine contains an inactivated (killed) virus, meaning a child cannot catch the flu from receiving the flu shot.
See the truth behind cold and flu myths.
Symptoms of the flu
Initially, the flu can be mistaken for a common cold. If symptoms develop rapidly, it is more likely to be the flu. Common flu symptoms observed in children include:
– Fever, chills, or sweating
– Nasal congestion
– Stuffy or runny nose
– Sore throat
– Cough
– Headaches
– Muscle or body aches
– Fatigue and weakness
– Vomiting and diarrhea, which are more prevalent in children than adults
When to go to the hospital for flu
The flu can typically be managed at home with adequate rest and hydration; however, complications can be serious or life-threatening for certain children. Young children and those with chronic conditions like asthma or diabetes are at higher risk for flu-associated complications.
If you have concerns about your child’s symptoms, it is best to contact your primary care physician first, as they are most knowledgeable about your child’s medical history and needs.
If your child exhibits any of the following symptoms, seek emergency care immediately:
– Difficulty breathing
– Unresponsiveness or lack of interaction
– Fever accompanied by a rash
– Severe or excessive vomiting
– Refusal to drink liquids
– Blue or gray skin tone
– Signs of dehydration, such as dry lips, sunken eyes, or decreased urination
– Improvement of flu-like symptoms followed by a return of fever and worsening cough
For newborns, it is often better for parents to consult a pediatrician rather than going to the ER unless they observe any of these signs:
– Inability to eat
– Breathing difficulties
– Lack of tears when crying
– Irritability and unwillingness to be held
– Significantly reduced wet diapers compared to usual
Learn more about when to contact a doctor and when to take your child to the hospital for flu-related issues.
