Influenza (Flu)
What is the flu?
The flu is caused by a virus. Usually there are two circulating strains of influenza, type A and B. Influenza season usually lasts from October to May, with January and February being the most active. (With the recent COVID-19 pandemic, the flu season changed, but likely to be temporary)
What are the symptoms of influenza?
- Fever (usually over 101 F or 38.3 C)
- Cough
- Runny nose and nasal congestion
- Headaches
- Muscle aches and pain
- Sore throat
- Abdominal pain and vomiting
Usually there are no serious consequences from influenza. However, some people who get the flu will later develop ear infections, pneumonia, croup, or bronchiolitis, especially if they have any underlying medical condition, such as lung disease or immune deficiency. In rare cases, flu can lead to hospitalization and even death.
call your doctor if:
If your child is younger than 2 months of age and has a fever, call your child’s doctor right away. For children older than 2 months who have been exposed to influenza or are showing signs of influenza, call your doctor within 48 hours. Call your child’s doctor if you child has any of the following:
- Difficulty breathing
- Blue color of lips and mouth
- Ear pain
- Fever that lasts longer than 4 days, or comes back after a few days
- Cough that is not improving after 1 week
How do you get influenza?
The influenza virus is spread in two ways. It is spread through respiratory droplets from coughing and sneezing. It is also spread indirectly from hand-to-hand or from touching contaminated objects.
What is the treatment for influenza?
Prescribed antiviral medications are available, and have been found to speed recovery. They must be started within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms to be effective. These medications can also be used upon exposure to prevent illness or lower its severity. Otherwise treatment includes rest, hydration, fever medication such as acetaminophen. Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections, and have no effects on viruses like influenza.
Some facts about the influenza vaccine
The influenza vaccine is given in the fall. It can prevent influenza or reduce the severity of symptoms. Studies show that the influenza vaccine is very effective in preventing hospitalization and death. It is recommended for all children 6 months and older, unless they have a medical contraindication. Side effects from the vaccine are soreness in the arm of injection, and low grade fever.
call your doctor if:
If your child is younger than 2 months of age and has a fever, call your child’s doctor right away. For children older than 2 months who have been exposed to influenza or are showing signs of influenza, call your doctor within 48 hours. Call your child’s doctor if you child has any of the following:
- Difficulty breathing
- Blue color of lips and mouth
- Ear pain
- Fever that lasts longer than 4 days, or comes back after a few days
- Cough that is not improving after 1 week