Sep 5, 2024 · Each year, millions of children get sick with seasonal flu; thousands of children are hospitalized, and some children die from flu. Children commonly need medical care because of flu, especially children younger than 5 years old.

Dec 23, 2024 · While most kids recover, the flu can cause serious complications, including hospitalization and death. Pediatrician Sabrina Ma, MD, explains the signs to watch for in your …

Influenza (flu) is a very contagious viral infection that affects the air passages of the lungs. It causes a high fever, body aches, a cough, and other symptoms. It's one of the most severe and common viral illnesses of the winter season. Most children are ill with the flu for less than a week.

Dec 18, 2024 · Influenza symptoms of high fever and trouble breathing are just a few of the signs that it's time to worry about flu in a child, which can prove fatal. Many flu-related deaths aren't …

Mar 9, 2018 · Flu symptoms in kids are similar to those in adults. Keep your child away from others if you suspect the flu, and call their doctor to see if they should be given an antiviral medication.

Sep 6, 2024 · Flu antiviral drugs are an important treatment option for children with suspected or confirmed flu. Antiviral drugs are most effective when taken early (within two days of symptoms starting). Early treatment with antiviral drugs is especially important for children who are at higher risk for flu complications.

Sep 18, 2024 · CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older get a flu vaccine each year. If your child is younger than 5 years old and has the flu or suspected flu symptoms, call your doctor right away. They may prescribe flu antiviral drugs.

Nov 19, 2024 · Learn more from WebMD about children and the flu - symptoms to look for, treatment, prevention, and when to seek medical care.

Mar 7, 2025 · Influenza B is highly contagious and can spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. People with the flu can be contagious about one day before symptoms start and up to five to seven days after they begin to feel sick. However, young children may remain contagious for a longer period than adults.

Flu can cause children under 4 years old to get very sick. Everyone age 6 months and older should get annual flu shots. The best time to get the influenza vaccine is before Halloween, but kids can get a flu shot at any time during flu season. (Adults need annual flu shots, too!)