Flu (Influenza)
Influenza in Children
The flu is a common viral illness that can make children feel suddenly and significantly unwell. While many children recover at home with supportive care, some may need medical evaluation — especially younger children or those with chronic conditions.
What Is the Flu?
Influenza (the flu) is a contagious respiratory virus that spreads easily through coughs, sneezes, and close contact. Flu season typically occurs in the fall and winter months and can affect children of all ages.
Common Symptoms
Flu symptoms often begin suddenly and may include:
- Fever or chills
- Body aches and muscle pain
- Headache
- Extreme fatigue
- Cough or sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Vomiting or diarrhea (more common in children)
Flu symptoms are often more intense than those of a common cold.
What You Can Do at Home
Supportive care can help your child feel more comfortable:
- Encourage plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration
- Allow extra rest and sleep
- Use age-appropriate fever or pain relievers as directed
- Keep your child home from school or activities while sick
Do not give aspirin to children.
When to Call Us
Call our office if your child has:
- High or persistent fever
- Symptoms that worsen or do not improve after a few days
- Trouble breathing or ongoing cough
- Vomiting that prevents keeping fluids down
- A chronic medical condition such as asthma
📞 Call (816) 792-1170 and select option 3.
When to Seek Urgent or Emergency Care
Seek urgent or emergency care if your child has:
- Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
- Blue lips or face
- Chest pain
- Severe dehydration (very little urine, dry mouth, no tears)
- Seizures or difficulty waking
- Fever in a baby under 3 months old
How We Diagnose and Treat the Flu
Your provider will evaluate symptoms and may perform a rapid flu test when appropriate. Treatment is usually supportive, but antiviral medications may be recommended for some children, especially when started early or for those at higher risk of complications.
Returning to School or Daycare
Children with the flu may return to school or daycare when:
- They have been fever-free for at least 24 hours without fever-reducing medication
- Symptoms are improving
- They feel well enough to participate
Prevention Tips
The best ways to reduce the risk of flu include:
- Getting the annual flu vaccine (recommended for children 6 months and older)
- Frequent handwashing
- Covering coughs and sneezes
- Staying home when sick
Schedule an Appointment
If you’re concerned your child may have the flu, we’re here to help.
Request an Appointment through our online form, or call our nurse triage line for guidance.
