Influenza (Flu) in Children
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COVID-19 AND SEASONAL INFLUENZA In times of pandemic, it is important to differentiate between COVID-19 and seasonal influenza. And although both are contagious respiratory diseases, they are caused by different viruses. The former is caused by infection with a new coronavirus (called SARS-CoV-2) and influenza is produced by infection with influenza viruses.
INFLUENZA OR FLU IN CHILDREN Influenza or flu in children can be a seasonal outbreak that happens every year. In this sense, this disease is very frequent between November and April. On the other hand, this disease is still underestimated because its symptoms are nonspecific and coincide with other winter viral epidemics. During annual seasonal epidemics, the infection rate is highest in school-age children, contributing to the widespread of the influenza virus.
Morbidity and Mortality The seasonal flu illness can lead to hospitalization in children under 2 years of age, especially in babies 0-6 months of age. Complications of this ailment can affect the respiratory system with otitis, pneumonia, and bronchitis. In rare cases, it can also affect all organs. Although morbidity is globally high, mortality is low (but not zero) in children.
Influenza Spread When influenza viruses affect the body, they are found in the nose and throat. The most common ways of germ spread or direct contact by kissing, touching, or holding hands and indirect contact by touching infested objects. Germs and viruses also travel through the air after the patient person coughs or sneezes. An infected individual can quickly spread the infection to several people. On the other hand, the incubation period of the Flu is 1-4 days, followed by a rapid appearance of symptoms. The flu can be transmitted from one day before to five days after symptoms begin.
Symptoms High fever Headache Anorexia Discomfort Cough Rhinorrhea Nasal obstruction Rhinitis Abdominal pain Vomiting Nausea Diarrhea
Children should be vaccinated every flu season to receive the best protection against this illness. In most cases, it is recommended to vaccinate children before the end of October. Treatment depends on the advice of your child’s pediatrician who can prescribe your child antiviral medications in the event of influenza.
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