Around 45 percent of all 2009 swine flu cases occurred in children under the age of 18, according to a November, 2009 report by the "New England Journal of Medicine." Known officially as the H1N1 virus, symptoms are, for the most part, the same in kids as they are in the rest of the population. There are some slight differences, however, which are important for parents and those who work with children to know, and in some cases may even save a life.
Fever, Headache and Muscle Aches
Symptoms of H1N1 for children include a high fever that can rise quickly to high as 104 degrees F and last three or four days. The fever is usually accompanied by a headache and muscle aches. A cough, sore throat and runny nose are also common. According to the website Flu.gov, children under the age of 5 and those with chronic medical conditions like asthma or diabetes may require an antiviral medication to shorten the length of the symptoms. These children are at higher risk for complications that arise from the flu, like pneumonia, and should be immediately seen by a doctor if flu symptoms appear.
Stomach Problems
Unlike adults, children with swine flu are more likely to experience diarrhea and vomiting along with fever, headache and muscle aches. To avert dehydration that can occur from these symptoms, make sure your child gets plenty of rest and drinks clear fluids, like water and electrolyte drinks.
Emergency Signs
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, when children develop complications from swine flu there are several signs that require immediate medical attention. Symptoms that your child is not getting sufficient oxygen include rapid breathing or difficulty taking a breath, or a skin tone that looks blue or gray. Signs of dehydration include not drinking enough, severe or repetitive vomiting, and the inability to wake up or interact with others. If your child becomes so irritable she doesn't want to be held, or if flu symptoms improve only to return with a fever and a nasty cough, you should also call a doctor.
