Flu Information for Parents

What is flu (Influenza)?

Flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs. Flu viruses cause illness, hospital stays, and deaths in the United States each year.

How serious is flu?

Flu illness can vary from mild to severe. While flu can be serious even in kids who are healthy, it can be especially dangerous for young children and children of any age who have certain chronic health conditions. Children younger than 5 years old–especially those younger than 2–are at higher risk of developing serious flu-related complications. Children of any age with certain chronic health conditions like asthma and diabetes are also at higher risk.

How does flu spread?

Flu viruses are thought to spread mainly by droplets made when someone with flu coughs, sneezes, or talks. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby. A person also can get the flu by touching something that has flu virus on it and then touching their mouth, eyes, or nose.

What are the signs and symptoms of flu?

Symptoms of flu can include:

Fever* or feeling feverish/chills
Cough
Sore throat
Runny or stuffy nose
Muscle or body aches
Headaches
Fatigue (tiredness).
Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.

* It’s important to note that not everyone with flu will have a fever.

How can I protect my child?

A flu vaccination is recommended for everyone six months and older, every year.
Get the flu vaccine for yourself and your child's
Was your hands often - CDC - Hand Hygiene
Stay away from people who are sick
Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
Cover coughs and sneezes to protect others.
Clean surfaces that may be contaminated with flu viruses.

What can I do if my child gets sick?

Talk to your doctor right away if you are worried about your child’s illness.
Make sure your child gets plenty of rest and drinks enough fluids. If your child is at higher risk for flu complications, call your doctor or take them to the doctor right away if they develop flu symptoms.

If your child becomes sick with flu illness, CDC recommends that they stay home for at least 24 hours after their fever is gone and their symptoms have improved or resolved. (The fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.) A fever is defined as 100°F (37.8°C)* or higher.

Who needs the flu shot?

Flu shots can be given to children 6 months and older.
Children younger than 9 years old who get vaccine for the first time need two doses.

In addition to getting a flu vaccine, you and your child should take everyday actions to help prevent the spread of germs.