Is Influenza Serious in Children?

 Influenza (flu) is a respiratory illness that occurs most frequently during the winter season in annual outbreaks. The most common symptoms of the flu are fever, muscle aches, a sore throat, and a nonproductive cough (dry cough). Influenza causes illness in almost people of all ages. Although the majority of people, including children, experience self-limited, uncomplicated illnesses that last less than a week, some people experience more severe sickness and may require hospitalization. Some parents may wonder if their child's influenza infection is dangerous or if it will go away with standard care. 

In this blog, to answer these concerns we will share crucial insights about influenza and whether it is considered serious in children. We have gathered references from expert pediatricians, like Dr. Promilla Butani, also considered a renowned general pediatrician doctor in South Delhi. Keep reading for more information.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Influenza in Children?

Even though influenza is a respiratory illness, the entire body suffers when a child has it. Children usually experience one or all of the following symptoms when they become unexpectedly ill:

• Fever, which may be as high as 103° to 105°

• Muscle and joint aches and pains

• Not feeling well

• Headache

• Sore throat

• Runny or stuffy nose

• Worsening cough

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Diarrhea

• Fatigue

However, the majority of patients recover from influenza within a week, but they frequently experience tiredness for up to 3–4 weeks. The cough could also last longer. It is observed that the symptoms of influenza could resemble other conditions too. It is best to seek help from a child specialist for a proper diagnosis. One can consult Dr. Promilla Butani who is the best child specialist in Delhi to confirm what condition a child is suffering from. She can assess the overall health of the child and recommend the best course of action.

How is Influenza Transmitted?

Influenza viruses are generally passed from person to person by coughing in the air. The flu is also likely to be spread by small virus particles that are released during breathing. The virus can also live on objects such as utensils, keyboards, telephones, etc. Therefore, if the child touches something that has been used by someone with the virus and then touches their own mouth, nose, or eyes, they could be infected.

Preventing flu transmission is particularly challenging, especially in children, who might unknowingly spread the illness before realizing they're sick. Generally, by the seventh day of infection, the risk of transmitting the flu to others diminishes.

Influenza: Is it Serious in Children?

Yes, influenza, also known as the flu, can be serious for children at times. While most cases of the flu are often mild and resolve on their own, it can lead to more severe complications in some cases. Young children, those under the age of five, are at a higher risk of developing severe complications from flu. Some of those include the following:

1. Pneumonia: Influenza can lead to viral or bacterial pneumonia, which is an infection of the lungs. This can be especially dangerous for children with underlying health conditions or weakened immune systems.

2. Dehydration: Dehydration in children with the flu can be a major problem, especially for infants and small children, if they don't consume enough fluids.

3. Worsening of Chronic Conditions: Children with long-term medical illnesses, such as asthma, diabetes, or heart issues, may experience aggravated symptoms of the flu. 

4. Ear Infections: Ear infections can occasionally arise as a complication of the flu, especially in younger children.

5. Seizures: Febrile seizures (seizures caused by high fever) can occur in young children as a result of the flu.

6. Inflammation of Heart or Muscles: In some cases, the flu can lead to inflammation of the heart or muscles, which can be serious. 

However, one must understand that the flu can be prevented through vaccination. The flu vaccine is advised for individuals who are six months or older, and getting vaccinated regularly reduces the risk of complications too. Also, one needs to practice good hygiene, such as washing hands regularly or covering sneezes or coughs, to prevent the spread of viruses.

However, if the child develops flu-like symptoms such as fever, sore throat, body aches, and fatigue, it is best to consult an expert pediatrician. One can consult Dr. Promilla Butani a renowned pediatrician in Delhi who can advise the appropriate treatment options and how to manage the symptoms of the child.

She also offers Influenza vaccine as well as other vaccines such as measles, chickenpox, hepatitis, etc. Apart from this, one can also get expert tips on breastfeeding, and she also guides parents on child rearing and parenting. To book a consultation with the expert pediatrician, visit Dr. Promilla Butani's Pediatrics Practice today!

More read: COVID-Safety Guidelines for Parents & Children