Flu In Children: Widespread and Potentially Dangerous
The flu (or influenza) is a contagious respiratory disease caused by influenza viruses. Sometimes the flu is confused with a cold because the flu can cause a runny nose, coughing, and sore throat.
But flu symptoms may be much worse and can also include fever, headache, extreme tiredness, and body aches. Children often spend a week or more in bed feeling absolutely miserable. Flu may also lead to serious complications such as pneumonia and even death.
The dangers of flu in children
Flu can lead to pneumonia, dehydration, and sinus and ear infections. Children under 2 have among the highest hospitalization rates, comparable to those seen in the elderly. In the 2003-2004 flu season, 153 children under the age of 18 died from flu. Nearly half were normal and healthy, with no other medical conditions before coming down with the flu. To help keep your children from getting the flu, the best way is vaccination.
Learn about effective ways to help prevent the flu in your children »
FACT: No one, including you and your children, can get the flu from a flu vaccine.