First Aid
In Victoria, influenza cases peak during the winter months, however infections can occur throughout the year. Influenza activity and disease severity varies from year to year, dependent on the circulating viruses, level of immunity of the population (from vaccination and past infection), and effectiveness of the annual vaccine.
In healthy children it is much like a bad cold, however influenza (flu) can cause more serious illness, especially in very young children and those with chronic medical conditions.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF INFLUENZA
Influenza usually begins with a sudden fever and at least two of the following symptoms:
- Aches and pains
- Headache
- Cough or noisy breathing
- Sore throat and runny nose
- Low energy
- Nausea, vomiting and/or diarrhoea
WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR
If you think your child has influenza, you should see a GP who may want to do a test to confirm if your child has the flu.
CARE AT HOME
Most children recover from influenza within seven days without any treatment. Ensure your child has plenty of bedrest, encourage them to drink lots of fluids and use paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain or discomfort.
If your child becomes more unwell or is showing signs of dehydration or is having difficulty breathing, you should go back to the GP urgently. Some children may need to be admitted to hospital.
HOW IS INFLUENZA SPREAD?
Influenza is very infectious. It can spread through the air by coughing and sneezing, and by touching objects that have been in contact with saliva or mucus from an infected person. A person with influenza is contagious from the day before symptoms begin until a few days after.
Good hygiene reduces the chance of getting influenza or passing it to others. This includes:
- Regularly washing hands thoroughly
- Not sharing cups or cutlery
- Encouraging children to cough or sneeze into their elbow
- Ensure tissues are thrown into the bin as soon as they are used, and hands are washed afterwards.
If your child has influenza, keep them home from school until they are well again.
INFLUENZA VACCINE
The influenza vaccine is the most effective way to reduce the chance of your child becoming sick with influenza. It is recommended annually for everyone aged six months and over.
Side effects of the vaccine include pain and redness at the site of injection. Less commonly, children may develop a fever or aches and pains, which last for one to two days. The vaccine cannot cause influenza as it contains inactivated influenza virus.