Flu Symptoms in Young Children: What Parents Need to Know

Recognizing the symptoms of influenza ("flu") in your small child can be difficult if your child cannot explain what hurts, and because the symptoms often resemble other common childhood illnesses. The symptoms of flu in small children may develop suddenly and are more severe than a cold or ear infection. According to the Centers for Disease Control and the Mayo Clinic, flu symptoms in small children last for several days and include digestive and respiratory problems.

Fever

• The most common and earliest symptom of flu you may notice in your small child is fever, which can be greater than 103 degrees F.

Pain

• If your child has the flu, he may complain of pain from an aching head, sore arms and legs and an irritated throat.

Upset Stomach

• Your child may have flu symptoms such as an upset stomach, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea that last for up to one week.

Difficult Breathing

• Shortness of breath, wheezing, a runny nose and a dry, scratchy cough are respiratory symptoms of the flu in small children.

Tiredness

• Small children may have flu symptoms including extreme tiredness and may result in sleeping or napping throughout the daytime.

Chills

• Chills and sweating, especially over night or while napping are symptoms of the flu in small children that may be accompanied by shaking or trembling.