Flu Symptoms

The symptoms of flu are often mistaken for a common cold; however, flu is a much more serious condition. Common flu symptoms include:

• Cough
• Fever
• Headache
• Loss of appetite
• Muscular aches
• Runny nose
• Sore throat

The symptoms of flu are different for everyone. The illness may not present itself in a child in the same way that it does in an adult.

Additional symptoms of flu to look for in children include:

• Chest pain
• Diarrhea
• Dry mouth
• Lack of energy.

When to see a doctor

Some of the symptoms of flu can be treated at home. If your child displays any of the following more symptoms, always speak to your doctor:

• A fever which isn’t responding to medication, fluids and rest
• Back pain
• Breathing that is labored
• Confusion
• Dehydration (reduced urination, no tears when crying)
• Extreme fatigue
• Headache that won’t go away
• Irritability
• Pain in the chest
• Stiffness in the neck
• Weakness in the legs.

You are the best person to judge if your child is unwell. If you are concerned about the symptoms of flu, always talk to a pediatrician.