As many people know, flu season is right around the corner. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, the flu starts slowly in October and sees an increase in illnesses December through March. While it is important to protect your child, it is also important to understand the virus and its symptoms.
What Is the Flu?
Influenza, commonly known as “the flu” is a highly contagious viral infection that affects both children and adults—however it is more common in children. The virus is spread from person to person through respiratory secretions and typically spreads quickly through large groups of people who are in close contact, such as:
- Daycares
- Classrooms
- Dormitories
- Business offices
- Nursing homes
Flu Symptoms in Children
Many parents often mistake flu symptoms as having the common cold. However, after exposure to the virus, your child will experience symptoms about two days later that include:
- Fever
- Chills
- Headache
- Fussiness (in infants)
- Muscle aches
- Dizziness
- Loss of appetite
- Tiredness
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny nose
- Nausea or vomiting
- Weakness
- Ear pain
- Diarrhea
How Long Do Children Have the Flu?
You can expect your child to have symptoms for around five days. After that, kids may still experience a cough and slight weakness; however, all symptoms should be gone within a week or two.
Treating the Flu in Children
It is important to treat the flu before matters can get worse. Life-threatening complications, such as pneumonia, can happen if the flu is not treated properly—especially in children and infants.
If you think your child has the flu, give us a call or schedule an appointment to get your child the treatment he/she needs—800-417-1164.
Flu Prevention
If you would like to protect your child before the flu season is in full swing, consider a flu vaccination. There are several types of flu vaccinations that will help your child fight off the virus.
Learn more about types of flu vaccinations here »
For a flu vaccine, contact Fast Track Urgent Care. We conveniently have multiple locations around the Maryland area. Stop in or contact us to learn more about how to prevent your child from getting the flu this season!
