Flu Symptoms in Kids: What Parents Need to Know
Wellness
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Flu symptoms in kids
Flu season is in full swing, and pediatricians, urgent care clinics and emergency centers are seeing an influx of children with flu symptoms. Recognizing flu symptoms early, especially in kids, is important for ensuring timely care and recovery. Let’s explore the symptoms of the flu, how to treat them and when to seek medical care.
What are common flu symptoms in kids?
Flu symptoms can vary, but common signs and symptoms include:
- Cough
- Decreased appetite
- Fatigue and tiredness
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle and body aches
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sore throat
- Vomiting or diarrhea (more common in children than adults)
In children, these symptoms often appear suddenly. Closely monitor your child’s condition, as some kids are at higher risk for complications, such as children under 2 and those with chronic or serious medical conditions.
Flu symptoms vs. a cold in kids: How to tell the difference
It’s easy to confuse flu symptoms in kids with a common cold, but there are notable differences:
- Flu: Symptoms come on suddenly and are more severe, including high fever, fatigue and body aches.
- Cold: Symptoms develop gradually and are milder, usually involving a runny nose and mild cough.
If you’re unsure, talk to your pediatrician to confirm whether it’s the flu or another illness. A flu test helps doctors determine if your child has the flu virus.
Your doctor may prescribe antiviral medications, such as Tamiflu or Relenza, to lessen symptoms, shorten the duration of the illness by 1 or 2 days and prevent complications and hospitalizations. Although studies show that these antiviral medications work best when started within 2 days of getting sick, starting them later, especially in high-risk children, can still help. You’ll need a doctor’s prescription to give these medications to a child to treat flu symptoms.
How to treat flu symptoms at home
For most kids, flu symptoms can be managed at home with proper care. Here’s what parents can do:
- Fever and pain relief: Use acetaminophen or ibuprofen to reduce fever and relieve body aches. Avoid ibuprofen for children under 6 months and talk to a pediatrician before giving medications to babies younger than 2 months. Learn more about over-the-counter medications for fever.
- Hydration: Ensure your child drinks plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. Dehydration is a common risk with the flu.
- Rest: Encourage plenty of rest to help your child’s body recover.
- Alternative flu remedies: Use saline sprays, suction bulbs or cool mist humidifiers for nasal congestion. Avoid over-the-counter cold and cough medications for children under 6 years old, as they may cause serious side effects. For older children, they’re OK to use when needed but read the package instructions for proper use and dosage.
When to see a doctor for the flu
Certain situations call for a visit to the pediatrician, especially if your child:
- Is at high risk for flu complications (for example, if they’re under 2 years old or have chronic medical conditions like asthma or diabetes)
- Shows prolonged or worsening flu symptoms
- Might benefit from antiviral medications like Tamiflu, which are most effective when started within 48 hours of symptoms starting
When to visit an urgent care or emergency center for the flu
Urgent care clinics can be a good option if your pediatrician isn’t available. Ensure the clinic is equipped with pediatric care and check your insurance coverage. Find a Texas Children’s Urgent Care location near you.
Seek immediate emergency care if your child shows severe flu symptoms, such as:
- Abnormal behavior or unresponsiveness
- Difficulty breathing or fast breathing
- Persistent vomiting and inability to drink fluids
- Poor skin color (pale or bluish)
- Signs of dehydration (e.g., no urination in over 8 hours, dry lips, no tears while crying)
- Severe pain
FAQs about flu symptoms in kids
Yes. Babies may show subtle signs like poor feeding, lethargy or irritability, while toddlers and older kids are more likely to have classic symptoms like fever and cough. Always consult a pediatrician if you suspect your baby has the flu.
Flu season typically peaks between December and February, but cases can occur as early as October and as late as May.
- Vaccinate your child (and yourself!) against the flu every year
- Practice good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick
Yes, but the vaccine reduces the severity and duration of illness. Vaccinated children are also less likely to develop complications.
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