The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that influenza causes 200,000 hospitalizations and 36,000 deaths each year, mostly among children and the elderly. Although most kids with influenza recover without medical care, there are exceptions. Therefore, the CDC urges an annual influenza vaccination for children 6 months to 19 years old.
High-Risk Groups
The CDC classifies kids under age 5 and especially those under 2 as high risk for complications of influenza such as pneumonia, ear infections and dehydration. Kids with medical problems, including those on aspirin therapy, are also at high risk for complications of influenza. Parents and caregivers of high-risk kids should contact their health-care provider as soon as they suspect a child has been exposed.
Symptoms
Influenza causes symptoms such as fever, fatigue, headache, dry cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose and muscle aches and pains. In younger kids, fatigue and pain manifest as irritability, fussiness, increased need for sleep, decreased activity and loss of appetite. Kids are also more likely than adults to develop gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea, according to the CDC.
Treatment
Prescription antiviral drugs are used to treat kids who are severely ill-such as those who are hospitalized-and those at high risk for flu-related complications. Depending on supplies, they may be used for other kids, as well. The drugs are most effective when started within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms and may actually prevent flu if they are started before the onset.
Vaccination
In its "Take Three Actions to Fight the Flu" campaign, the CDC recommends the annual flu vaccine as the best way to reduce a person's risk of getting sick. The vaccine is available as a shot or a nasal spray, but not every option is right for every kid. The flu shot is Food and Drug Administration approved for children 6 months and up. The nasal spray vaccine is for healthy children 2 years and up. Parents and caregivers can protect kids who are too young to be vaccinated by getting vaccinated themselves.
