Influenza, or the flu, is a viral infection that impacts the respiratory tract. KidsHealth.org points out that the flu is often seasonal, occurring from November to April. Distinguishing the flu from the common cold in a child can be difficult because of the similarity in symptoms. Many colds are also caused by a virus, which means antibiotics are not useful in curing the illness. Instead, treating a viral infection, such as the flu, focuses on relieving symptoms to make the child more comfortable.
Fever
A fever with or without chills is common in children who have the flu. The body temperature is likely to be at or above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. When approved by a doctor, a child can be given a tepid bath or an over-the-counter medication to lower the temperature.
Pain
The flu can cause a number of aches in pains in children. This includes a headache, muscle aches, sore throat and even ear pan, as indicated by the National Institutes of Health. An over-the-counter pain reliever may be given to children under the advice of a doctor to help relieve these symptoms. Caregivers can recognize these symptoms in a child when she becomes more irritable, has trouble sleeping, refuses to eat or complains of pain in particular parts of the body.
General Illness
The flu shares many general illness symptoms with a cold. These include dizziness, coughing, runny nose and weakness. A child may experience these general symptoms of illness at a greater intensity with the flu. A caregiver may be able to recognize the difference in the child's lack of interest in playing or eating. Overall, the child will be visibly ill. The symptoms can last for for up to five days, whereas the worst part of the cold may only last for one day.
Gastrointestinal Symptoms
In some cases, a child with the flu may develop one or several gastrointestinal symptoms. This includes nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.
