The flu is a highly contagious illness that can be serious if it infects a baby. Young infants have an immature immune system, which can be more taxed by an illness like the flu. Treatment of the flu in babies varies depending on the severity of the symptoms. It is important for a baby to have plenty of fluid and rest to get over the illness. When the flu causes a persistent high fever, trouble breathing or symptoms that last more than a week, medical treatment is necessary, according to the March of Dimes.
Fever
The flu can cause a sudden high temperature in infants. Most pediatricians would agree that a fever higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit requires immediate medical attention in young babies. The March of Dimes explains that a fever that is higher than 100.4 degrees in a child under three months of age, 101 degrees in children between three and six months of age and 103 degrees in children who are more than six months of age is a medical emergency. Fever-reducers should not be used in babies without the explicit advice of a doctor. Along with the fever, an infant may have chills.
Pain
Very young children are not as likely to have a headache with the flu but it is possible. Muscle aches and pains are common with the flu. An infant may fuss even when held due to the body pain. She may wake throughout the night and seem uncomfortable when touched. It is not uncommon for the throat to become sore with the flu but it will be difficult for a caregiver to recognize this symptom.
Cold-Like Symptoms
The flu can cause a dry cough and a runny nose. These cold-like symptoms and other flu symptoms often last about five days. In a baby these symptoms are best treated with a saline nasal spray and bulb syringe used to suction out the mucus. In serious flu cases a baby may struggle to breathe and even wheeze. These are serious symptoms that should be treated by a medical professional. An infant who is not getting enough oxygen may have a blueish tint to his lips or finger nails.
Fatigue
The flu can make a baby more tired than usual. An infant may seem lethargic or uninterested in playing while suffering from the flu. Rest is important for the baby's recovery but if she becomes difficult to rouse, medical attention is needed.
Appetite
The flu may diminish an infant's appetite. This can be due to fatigue, general ill feelings or abdominal pain, according to BabyCenter.com. Caregivers should monitor the infant's fluid intake as dehydration can occur. When a baby does not receive adequate hydration the result can be serious. Signs of this include crying without tears, darkness under the eyes, dry mouth and infrequent wet diapers.
