{"id":4676,"date":"2025-09-29T15:48:49","date_gmt":"2025-09-29T13:48:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ifmc.al\/?p=4676"},"modified":"2025-09-29T15:48:51","modified_gmt":"2025-09-29T13:48:51","slug":"flu-viruses-in-children-advice-from-a-pediatrician","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ifmc.al\/en\/flu-viruses-in-children-advice-from-a-pediatrician\/","title":{"rendered":"Flu Viruses in Children: Advice from a Pediatrician"},"content":{"rendered":"

The winter season often brings with it flu viruses that especially affect children. As a parent, it's normal to worry when your child has a fever, cough, or runny nose. But in many cases, the flu is manageable with proper home care and advice. pediatrician<\/a>In this article you will find useful information about influenza viruses in children, signs to watch out for, and practical advice from doctors to get through this period as easily as possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"influenza<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

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What are influenza viruses in children?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Influenza viruses are infections caused by various viruses that attack the upper respiratory tract. They spread quickly, especially in crowded environments, such as daycare centers, kindergartens, or schools.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In children, the immune system is still developing, so they are more susceptible and are affected more often. However, most viral infections pass without serious complications if proper care is taken.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The most common signs of flu in children<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Signs vary depending on the virus, but the most common symptoms are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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  1. High temperature that lasts for several days.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  2. Stuffy or runny nose.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  3. Dry cough or cough with secretions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  4. Sore throat and difficulty swallowing.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  5. Fatigue and lack of appetite.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  6. In some cases, abdominal pain or diarrhea.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

    It is important for parents to observe the child and notice if symptoms are worsening, as medical help is then required.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    How are influenza viruses spread in children?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

    Flu and viruses spread mainly through the air when a sick person sneezes or coughs. Children often touch their face, nose, or eyes after touching contaminated toys or surfaces, which makes the infection even easier to spread.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Therefore, hand hygiene and disinfection of environments where children stay is a necessary step to prevent the spread of the flu!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    \"flu<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

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    Practical advice from a doctor on flu care in children<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

    1. Sufficient rest<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    The child's body needs energy to fight the virus. Make sure the child rests and sleeps more than usual.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    2. Plenty of fluids<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    Water, warm teas for children, and soups help prevent dehydration and relieve symptoms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    3. Healthy eating<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    Even though the child may have little appetite, give him light, vitamin-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and warm soups.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    4. Room ventilation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    Keep your child's room well ventilated and avoid very high temperatures, as dry air worsens the cough.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    5. Avoiding over-the-counter antibiotics<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    The use of antibiotics without medical recommendation should be avoided as it may cause bacterial resistance in the future!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    6. Consultation with the doctor<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    If the child has a fever that does not go down, difficulty breathing, refuses food, or seems very tired, it is necessary to visit a pediatrician.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    When does flu in children become a concern?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

    Not every virus is dangerous, but there are some warning signs that should not be ignored:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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    1. Temperature above 39\u00b0C that does not decrease even with medication.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    2. Rapid or difficult breathing.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    3. Very pale or cold skin.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    4. Excessive drowsiness or lack of responsiveness.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    5. Signs of dehydration such as dry lips, lack of tears, or little urine.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

      In these cases, a visit to a pediatrician is essential. At Family Hospital, our pediatricians are always ready to provide professional care for children with the flu.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      How can we prevent influenza viruses in children?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

      Prevention is easier than cure. The most effective ways to protect children are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n