Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is an acute respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It is particularly concerning in the pediatric population due to their developing immune systems and the potential for severe complications. This article addresses various important questions about influenza viruses in the context of pediatrics.
What are Influenza Viruses?
Influenza viruses are segmented, negative-sense RNA viruses belonging to the Orthomyxoviridae family. There are four types of influenza viruses: A, B, C, and D. However, types A and B are primarily responsible for seasonal flu epidemics in humans. Influenza A viruses are further classified into subtypes based on proteins on their surface, hemagglutinin (H) and neuraminidase (N). The most common subtypes in humans are H1N1 and H3N2.
How is Influenza Transmitted?
Influenza viruses are highly contagious and spread primarily through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. Children can also contract the virus by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touching their mouth, nose, or eyes. The virus can survive on surfaces for several hours, making proper hygiene critical in preventing transmission.
Fever
Chills
Cough
Sore throat
Runny or stuffy nose
Muscle or body aches
Headache
Fatigue
Vomiting and diarrhea (more common in children than adults)
In some cases, influenza can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, dehydration, and worsening of chronic medical conditions.
How is Influenza Diagnosed?
Diagnosis of influenza in children is often based on clinical symptoms, especially during flu season. However, laboratory tests such as rapid influenza diagnostic tests (RIDTs) or reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) can confirm the presence of the virus. RT-PCR is more accurate but takes longer to yield results.
Ensuring adequate fluid intake to prevent dehydration
Rest
Over-the-counter medications to reduce fever and alleviate pain
Antiviral medications like oseltamivir (Tamiflu) and zanamivir (Relenza) can be prescribed to reduce the severity and duration of symptoms if administered within the first 48 hours of illness onset. These antivirals are particularly beneficial for children at high risk of complications.
Annual flu vaccination: The
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that all children aged 6 months and older receive an annual flu vaccine. The vaccine is updated yearly to match circulating virus strains.
Good hygiene practices: Encourage regular handwashing with soap and water, using alcohol-based hand sanitizers, and covering the mouth and nose with a tissue or elbow when coughing or sneezing.
Avoiding close contact with sick individuals: Keeping children away from those who are ill can help reduce the risk of transmission.
Disinfecting frequently touched surfaces: Regular cleaning of toys, doorknobs, and other commonly touched items can help prevent the spread of the virus.
Children younger than 5 years, especially those under 2 years
Children with chronic medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease
Children with weakened immune systems
Children with neurological or neurodevelopmental conditions
American Indian and Alaska Native children
Encouraging flu vaccination for students and staff
Promoting good hygiene practices
Providing hand sanitizers and tissues in classrooms
Ensuring that sick children and staff stay home until they are fever-free for at least 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medications
Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces
Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
Persistent high fever
Not drinking enough fluids
Severe or persistent vomiting
Blue or gray skin color
Not waking up or interacting
Flu-like symptoms that improve but then return with fever and worse cough
In conclusion, influenza is a significant concern in the pediatric population due to its potential severity and complications. Annual vaccination, good hygiene practices, and early treatment are key strategies in managing and preventing influenza in children. Parents, healthcare providers, and schools must work together to protect children from this contagious respiratory illness.
