What does influenza mean in children?

Influenza in children is a viral respiratory illness that can cause fever, cough, aches and reduced energy. Some children mainly seem irritable, sleepy or unwilling to eat and drink. Symptoms can overlap with other infections, so a clinician may need to assess the child rather than relying on one sign.

A child may develop fever and cough quickly, with chills, headache, sore muscles, vomiting or diarrhoea. Babies may show poor feeding, fewer wet nappies or unusual sleepiness instead of describing symptoms. Children with asthma, neurological conditions, immune problems or other long-term illness may need earlier medical advice.

Offer frequent small drinks and continue breastfeeds or usual feeds when possible. Let the child rest, dress them comfortably and use only age-appropriate medicine in the dose advised by a clinician or product label. Never give aspirin to a child unless specifically prescribed. Keep the child home while acutely unwell, ventilate shared rooms and avoid close contact with vulnerable relatives.

Seek urgent help if the child struggles to breathe, has blue lips, is difficult to wake, has a seizure, becomes confused, shows signs of dehydration, or develops severe chest pain. Babies who feed poorly or have markedly fewer wet nappies need prompt assessment. Contact a clinician when fever or symptoms are worsening, returning after improvement, or causing concern.

Ask how much fluid your child needs, which medicines and doses are suitable, whether antiviral treatment should be considered, and what changes mean you should return for review.