Flu is a respiratory tract infection caused by the influenza virus that runs a far more dramatic course than the common cold. It spreads rapidly among school- and daycare-age children, especially during the autumn and winter months.

Flu Symptoms

  • Sudden-onset high fever (39°C and above)
  • Severe fatigue, widespread muscle and joint aches
  • Headache, dry cough, sore throat
  • Loss of appetite; in younger children, vomiting and diarrhea may accompany it

The Difference Between Flu and the Common Cold

A common cold starts slowly, a runny nose is the main feature, and the child usually keeps on playing. The flu, on the other hand, starts suddenly; the fever is high and the child is markedly unwell. The picture of "they were fine last night and woke up with a fever in the morning" is typically suggestive of flu.

How Long Does the Flu Last?

The fever usually subsides within 3–5 days; cough and fatigue may last 1–2 weeks. When a child is seen within the first 48 hours, antiviral treatment may be considered for those in high-risk groups.

When Should You See a Doctor?

  • Any fever in a baby younger than 3 months
  • Rapid or labored breathing, bluish discoloration
  • Inability to take fluids, decreased urine output
  • A fever that drops and then rises again (may be a sign of a secondary infection such as pneumonia)
  • Excessive drowsiness, difficulty waking the child

Flu Vaccine

The flu vaccine is recommended every autumn for all children older than 6 months, especially those with asthma or a chronic illness. The flu vaccine is administered at our clinic.

📅 Online appointment for your child: Dr. Hasan Keleş — appointment page

Related articles: When is a high fever in children dangerous? · Cough in babies · Vaccination schedule

This article is for general informational purposes only; it does not replace diagnosis and treatment. For any concerns about your child's health, always consult a pediatrician.

Uzm. Dr. Hasan Keleş — Pediatrician, Gaziantep