{"id":17673,"date":"2026-03-03T00:02:45","date_gmt":"2026-03-02T23:02:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/?p=17673"},"modified":"2026-03-03T00:02:45","modified_gmt":"2026-03-02T23:02:45","slug":"gripp-u-detey-osobennosti-techeniya-pervye-priznaki-i-kogda-bezhat-k-vrachu","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/medlibrary\/flu-in-children-features-of-the-course-first-signs-and-when-to-run-to-the-doctor\/","title":{"rendered":"Influenza in children: features of the course, first signs, and when to run to the doctor"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"fpm_start\"><\/div>\n<p>Influenza in children is not just a \"cold, but with a fever.\" It is an acute viral respiratory disease caused by RNA influenza viruses (type A, B, less commonly C), which can develop rapidly and lead to severe complications even in healthy children. Unlike ARVI, influenza begins suddenly: within a few hours, the temperature rises to 39\u201340 \u00b0C, there is body aches, headache, sharp weakness, and cough and runny nose come later \u2014 often against a background of pronounced intoxication. In children under 5 years old, especially under 2 years old, the risk of hospitalization is higher because their immune system has not yet \"learned\" to recognize and block the virus as effectively as in adults. And yes \u2014 influenza can be contracted without complications, but only if it is recognized in time, not confused with other ARI, and if the development of a bacterial secondary infection is prevented.<\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_85 counter-flat ez-toc-counter ez-toc-light-blue ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Content<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseprofile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/medlibrary\/flu-in-children-features-of-the-course-first-signs-and-when-to-run-to-the-doctor\/#%D0%9A%D0%BB%D0%B0%D1%81%D1%81%D0%B8%D1%84%D0%B8%D0%BA%D0%B0%D1%86%D0%B8%D1%8F_%D0%B7%D0%B0%D0%B1%D0%BE%D0%BB%D0%B5%D0%B2%D0%B0%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%8F_%D0%BF%D0%BE_%D0%9C%D0%9A%D0%91-11\" >Classification of the disease according to ICD-11<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/medlibrary\/flu-in-children-features-of-the-course-first-signs-and-when-to-run-to-the-doctor\/#%D0%98%D1%81%D1%82%D0%BE%D1%80%D0%B8%D1%8F_%D0%B7%D0%B0%D0%B1%D0%BE%D0%BB%D0%B5%D0%B2%D0%B0%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%8F_%D0%B8_%D0%B8%D0%BD%D1%82%D0%B5%D1%80%D0%B5%D1%81%D0%BD%D1%8B%D0%B5_%D0%B8%D1%81%D1%82%D0%BE%D1%80%D0%B8%D1%87%D0%B5%D1%81%D0%BA%D0%B8%D0%B5_%D1%84%D0%B0%D0%BA%D1%82%D1%8B\" >History of the disease and interesting historical facts<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/medlibrary\/flu-in-children-features-of-the-course-first-signs-and-when-to-run-to-the-doctor\/#%D0%AD%D0%BF%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BC%D0%B8%D0%BE%D0%BB%D0%BE%D0%B3%D0%B8%D1%8F_%D1%81%D1%82%D0%B0%D1%82%D0%B8%D1%81%D1%82%D0%B8%D0%BA%D0%B0_%D0%B2%D0%BE%D0%B7%D0%BD%D0%B8%D0%BA%D0%BD%D0%BE%D0%B2%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%8F_%D0%B7%D0%B0%D0%B1%D0%BE%D0%BB%D0%B5%D0%B2%D0%B0%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%8F\" >Epidemiology: statistics on the occurrence of the disease<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/medlibrary\/flu-in-children-features-of-the-course-first-signs-and-when-to-run-to-the-doctor\/#%D0%93%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%B5%D1%82%D0%B8%D1%87%D0%B5%D1%81%D0%BA%D0%B0%D1%8F_%D0%BF%D1%80%D0%B5%D0%B4%D1%80%D0%B0%D1%81%D0%BF%D0%BE%D0%BB%D0%BE%D0%B6%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%BD%D0%BE%D1%81%D1%82%D1%8C_%D0%BA_%D0%B3%D1%80%D0%B8%D0%BF%D0%BF%D1%83\" >Genetic predisposition to influenza<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/medlibrary\/flu-in-children-features-of-the-course-first-signs-and-when-to-run-to-the-doctor\/#%D0%A4%D0%B0%D0%BA%D1%82%D0%BE%D1%80%D1%8B_%D1%80%D0%B8%D1%81%D0%BA%D0%B0_%D0%B2%D0%BE%D0%B7%D0%BD%D0%B8%D0%BA%D0%BD%D0%BE%D0%B2%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%8F_%D0%B8_%D1%82%D1%8F%D0%B6%D1%91%D0%BB%D0%BE%D0%B3%D0%BE_%D1%82%D0%B5%D1%87%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%8F_%D0%B3%D1%80%D0%B8%D0%BF%D0%BF%D0%B0_%D1%83_%D0%B4%D0%B5%D1%82%D0%B5%D0%B9\" >Risk factors for the occurrence and severe course of influenza in children<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/medlibrary\/flu-in-children-features-of-the-course-first-signs-and-when-to-run-to-the-doctor\/#%D0%94%D0%B8%D0%B0%D0%B3%D0%BD%D0%BE%D1%81%D1%82%D0%B8%D0%BA%D0%B0_%D0%B3%D1%80%D0%B8%D0%BF%D0%BF%D0%B0_%D0%BA%D0%B0%D0%BA_%D0%BE%D1%82%D0%BB%D0%B8%D1%87%D0%B8%D1%82%D1%8C_%D0%BE%D1%82_%D0%9E%D0%A0%D0%92%D0%98_%D0%B8_%D0%BA%D0%BE%D0%B3%D0%B4%D0%B0_%D0%BD%D1%83%D0%B6%D0%B5%D0%BD_%D1%82%D0%B5%D1%81%D1%82\" >Diagnosis of influenza: how to distinguish it from ARVI and when a test is needed<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/medlibrary\/flu-in-children-features-of-the-course-first-signs-and-when-to-run-to-the-doctor\/#%D0%9B%D0%B5%D1%87%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%B8%D0%B5_%D0%B3%D1%80%D0%B8%D0%BF%D0%BF%D0%B0_%D1%83_%D0%B4%D0%B5%D1%82%D0%B5%D0%B9_%D1%87%D1%82%D0%BE_%D1%80%D0%B0%D0%B1%D0%BE%D1%82%D0%B0%D0%B5%D1%82_%D0%B0_%D1%87%D1%82%D0%BE_%E2%80%94_%D0%BD%D0%B5%D1%82\" >Treatment of influenza in children: what works and what does not<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/medlibrary\/flu-in-children-features-of-the-course-first-signs-and-when-to-run-to-the-doctor\/#%D0%A1%D0%BF%D0%B8%D1%81%D0%BE%D0%BA_%D0%BB%D0%B5%D0%BA%D0%B0%D1%80%D1%81%D1%82%D0%B2_%D0%BF%D1%80%D0%B8%D0%BC%D0%B5%D0%BD%D1%8F%D0%B5%D0%BC%D1%8B%D1%85_%D0%BF%D1%80%D0%B8_%D0%B3%D1%80%D0%B8%D0%BF%D0%BF%D0%B5_%D1%83_%D0%B4%D0%B5%D1%82%D0%B5%D0%B9\" >List of medications used for flu in children<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/medlibrary\/flu-in-children-features-of-the-course-first-signs-and-when-to-run-to-the-doctor\/#%D0%9C%D0%BE%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%82%D0%BE%D1%80%D0%B8%D0%BD%D0%B3_%D1%82%D0%B5%D1%87%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%8F_%D0%B3%D1%80%D0%B8%D0%BF%D0%BF%D0%B0_%D0%BA%D0%BE%D0%BD%D1%82%D1%80%D0%BE%D0%BB%D1%8C%D0%BD%D1%8B%D0%B5_%D1%8D%D1%82%D0%B0%D0%BF%D1%8B_%D0%BF%D1%80%D0%BE%D0%B3%D0%BD%D0%BE%D0%B7_%D0%B8_%D0%BE%D1%81%D0%BB%D0%BE%D0%B6%D0%BD%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%8F\" >Monitoring the course of influenza: control stages, prognosis, and complications<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/medlibrary\/flu-in-children-features-of-the-course-first-signs-and-when-to-run-to-the-doctor\/#%D0%92%D0%BE%D0%B7%D1%80%D0%B0%D1%81%D1%82%D0%BD%D1%8B%D0%B5_%D0%BE%D1%81%D0%BE%D0%B1%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%BD%D0%BE%D1%81%D1%82%D0%B8_%D1%82%D0%B5%D1%87%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%8F_%D0%B3%D1%80%D0%B8%D0%BF%D0%BF%D0%B0_%D1%83_%D0%B4%D0%B5%D1%82%D0%B5%D0%B9\" >Age-related features of influenza in children<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/medlibrary\/flu-in-children-features-of-the-course-first-signs-and-when-to-run-to-the-doctor\/#%D0%92%D0%BE%D0%BF%D1%80%D0%BE%D1%81%D1%8B_%D0%B8_%D0%BE%D1%82%D0%B2%D0%B5%D1%82%D1%8B_%D1%81%D0%B0%D0%BC%D1%8B%D0%B5_%D1%87%D0%B0%D1%81%D1%82%D1%8B%D0%B5_%D0%B7%D0%B0%D0%BF%D1%80%D0%BE%D1%81%D1%8B_%D1%80%D0%BE%D0%B4%D0%B8%D1%82%D0%B5%D0%BB%D0%B5%D0%B9\" >Questions and answers: the most common inquiries from parents<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/medlibrary\/flu-in-children-features-of-the-course-first-signs-and-when-to-run-to-the-doctor\/#%D0%A2%D0%B8%D0%BF%D0%B8%D1%87%D0%BD%D1%8B%D0%B5_%D0%BE%D1%88%D0%B8%D0%B1%D0%BA%D0%B8_%D1%80%D0%BE%D0%B4%D0%B8%D1%82%D0%B5%D0%BB%D0%B5%D0%B9_%D0%BF%D1%80%D0%B8_%D0%B3%D1%80%D0%B8%D0%BF%D0%BF%D0%B5_%D1%83_%D1%80%D0%B5%D0%B1%D1%91%D0%BD%D0%BA%D0%B0\" >Typical mistakes parents make when their child has the flu<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/medlibrary\/flu-in-children-features-of-the-course-first-signs-and-when-to-run-to-the-doctor\/#%D0%97%D0%B0%D0%BA%D0%BB%D1%8E%D1%87%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%B8%D0%B5_%D1%87%D1%82%D0%BE_%D0%B3%D0%BB%D0%B0%D0%B2%D0%BD%D0%BE%D0%B5_%D0%B7%D0%B0%D0%BF%D0%BE%D0%BC%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%82%D1%8C_%D0%BE_%D0%B3%D1%80%D0%B8%D0%BF%D0%BF%D0%B5_%D1%83_%D0%B4%D0%B5%D1%82%D0%B5%D0%B9\" >Conclusion: what is important to remember about influenza in children<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%D0%9A%D0%BB%D0%B0%D1%81%D1%81%D0%B8%D1%84%D0%B8%D0%BA%D0%B0%D1%86%D0%B8%D1%8F_%D0%B7%D0%B0%D0%B1%D0%BE%D0%BB%D0%B5%D0%B2%D0%B0%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%8F_%D0%BF%D0%BE_%D0%9C%D0%9A%D0%91-11\"><\/span>Classification of the disease according to ICD-11<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>According to the International Classification of Diseases 11th Revision (ICD-11), influenza is coded as <strong>BA20<\/strong> \u2014 \"Influenza caused by influenza virus A,\" <strong>BA21<\/strong> \u2014 \"Influenza caused by influenza virus B,\" and <strong>BA22<\/strong> \u2014 \"Influenza caused by influenza virus C.\" These codes belong to the section \"Infectious and parasitic diseases\" \u2192 \"Viral infections of the respiratory tract.\" Importantly, in ICD-11, influenza is distinguished separately from other acute respiratory viral infections (ARVI), which are designated as <strong>BA23<\/strong> (\"Other acute viral infections of the upper respiratory tract\"). This is not a bureaucratic detail \u2014 it is a difference in treatment tactics, prognosis, and prevention. For example, antiviral drugs like oseltamivir specifically act against influenza viruses A and B, but not against adenoviruses or rhinoviruses, which most often cause the typical \"cold.\"<br \/>\nIf you see the code BA23 in the medical history, it is not influenza, but another ARVI. And if the doctor diagnosed \"influenza\" without confirmation (for example, without a rapid test or PCR), it is worth clarifying: it may be a clinical probability rather than a laboratory-confirmed case. During the peak flu activity season (January-February), doctors often diagnose it based on characteristic symptoms, but it is better to have confirmation for antiviral therapy \u2014 especially in children with chronic diseases.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%D0%98%D1%81%D1%82%D0%BE%D1%80%D0%B8%D1%8F_%D0%B7%D0%B0%D0%B1%D0%BE%D0%BB%D0%B5%D0%B2%D0%B0%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%8F_%D0%B8_%D0%B8%D0%BD%D1%82%D0%B5%D1%80%D0%B5%D1%81%D0%BD%D1%8B%D0%B5_%D0%B8%D1%81%D1%82%D0%BE%D1%80%D0%B8%D1%87%D0%B5%D1%81%D0%BA%D0%B8%D0%B5_%D1%84%D0%B0%D0%BA%D1%82%D1%8B\"><\/span>History of the disease and interesting historical facts<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Influenza has been known to humanity since ancient times. The first reliable descriptions of mass outbreaks date back to the era of Ancient Rome and Greece \u2014 Hippocrates in the 4th century BC described \"fever with cough and shortness of breath,\" which \"passed through cities like fire.\" However, a real breakthrough in understanding influenza occurred only in the 20th century. In 1918, the most destructive pandemic in history broke out \u2014 the \"Spanish flu\" (although its origin is not related to Spain). Over two years, it claimed the lives of about 50 million \u2014 more than World War I. It particularly affected young people aged 20-40, while children and the elderly \u2014 usually the most vulnerable groups \u2014 suffered less. Scientists still argue about why this happened, but one of the hypotheses is related to the \"cytokine storm\" \u2014 an excessive immune response in people with strong immunity.<br \/>\nAn interesting fact is that the influenza A virus has the ability for **antigenic shift** \u2014 a sharp change in surface proteins (hemagglutinin and neuraminidase) when two different strains (for example, human and avian) exchange genetic material within one cell. This is how the pandemic strains of 1957 (\"Asian flu\"), 1968 (\"Hong Kong flu\"), and 2009 (\"swine flu\" H1N1pdm09) arose. These new strains are particularly dangerous for children because they have no immune \"memory\" against them \u2014 neither from previous illnesses nor from vaccination.<br \/>\nAnother curious point: in 1933, British scientists first isolated the influenza A virus from guinea pigs \u2014 which is why it is sometimes called \"swine flu,\" although in nature it circulates among birds and mammals. Today we know: influenza viruses are not static entities, but constantly mutating \"genetic drifts,\" which makes creating a universal vaccine an extremely challenging task.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%D0%AD%D0%BF%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BC%D0%B8%D0%BE%D0%BB%D0%BE%D0%B3%D0%B8%D1%8F_%D1%81%D1%82%D0%B0%D1%82%D0%B8%D1%81%D1%82%D0%B8%D0%BA%D0%B0_%D0%B2%D0%BE%D0%B7%D0%BD%D0%B8%D0%BA%D0%BD%D0%BE%D0%B2%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%8F_%D0%B7%D0%B0%D0%B1%D0%BE%D0%BB%D0%B5%D0%B2%D0%B0%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%8F\"><\/span>Epidemiology: statistics on the occurrence of the disease<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>According to WHO, annually influenza affects from 51 million to 101 million adults worldwide and from 201 million to 301 million children. In Russia, the flu season usually begins in late October - early November, peaks in January-February, and subsides by April. According to Rospotrebnadzor for the 2024-2025 year, during the epidemic rise (January-February 2025), the incidence of influenza among children under 14 years old was **187.3 cases per 10,000 child population** \u2014 almost 2.5 times higher than among adults (76.1 per 10,000).<br \/>\nWhat is particularly concerning is the share of hospitalizations among children with influenza: according to statistics from the Federal State Budgetary Institution \"NMITZ Health of Children\" of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, in the 2024\/25 season about **12-15% of children with laboratory-confirmed influenza were hospitalized**, with 3-5% developing complications: pneumonia, bronchiolitis, otitis, myocarditis, or neurological disorders (for example, seizures during fever). The highest risk is among children under 2 years old, especially premature ones, and those suffering from chronic diseases: asthma, diabetes, immunodeficiencies, heart anomalies.<br \/>\nHere is a table with the main indicators by age groups (data for the 2024\/25 season, Rospotrebnadzor + NMITZ Health of Children):<\/p>\n<table border=\"1\" cellpadding=\"5\" cellspacing=\"0\">\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Age group<\/strong><\/td>\n<td><strong>Incidence (per 10,000)<\/strong><\/td>\n<td><strong>Share of hospitalizations<\/strong><\/td>\n<td><strong>Frequency of complications<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>0\u20132 years<\/td>\n<td>241,7<\/td>\n<td>22,4%<\/td>\n<td>8,7%<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>3\u20136 years<\/td>\n<td>203,1<\/td>\n<td>14,2%<\/td>\n<td>4,9%<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>7\u201314 years<\/td>\n<td>142,8<\/td>\n<td>8,1%<\/td>\n<td>2,3%<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>15\u201318 years<\/td>\n<td>91,5<\/td>\n<td>5,6%<\/td>\n<td>1,8%<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/table>\n<p>Note: even with a decrease in the absolute number of cases compared to the 2009 pandemic, influenza remains one of the main causes of childhood morbidity and temporary incapacity of parents. And yes \u2014 vaccination reduces the risk of illness by 40\u201360%, and severe forms by 70\u201380%. But the vaccination coverage among children in Russia currently does not exceed 55% (according to the Ministry of Health, 2025), which leaves a significant part of the population vulnerable.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%D0%93%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%B5%D1%82%D0%B8%D1%87%D0%B5%D1%81%D0%BA%D0%B0%D1%8F_%D0%BF%D1%80%D0%B5%D0%B4%D1%80%D0%B0%D1%81%D0%BF%D0%BE%D0%BB%D0%BE%D0%B6%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%BD%D0%BE%D1%81%D1%82%D1%8C_%D0%BA_%D0%B3%D1%80%D0%B8%D0%BF%D0%BF%D1%83\"><\/span>Genetic predisposition to influenza<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>There is no direct \"influenza gene\" \u2014 but there are genes that influence susceptibility to the virus and the severity of the course. Recent studies show that variants of genes involved in the antiviral response may determine how the body reacts to infection. For example:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Gene IFITM3<\/strong> (interferon-induced transmembrane protein 3): its mutation rs12252-C is associated with an increased risk of severe influenza in children. This protein blocks the virus from entering the cell. In carriers of the mutation, the protection is weakened.<\/li>\n<li>Gene TLR3 (toll-like receptor 3): is responsible for recognizing viral RNA. Defects in it can lead to insufficient interferon production and prolonged viral carriage.<\/li>\n<li><strong>HLA-class II genes<\/strong> (for example, HLA-DRB1*07): some alleles are associated with a milder course, others \u2014 with the risk of complications. This explains why two children from the same family may experience the flu differently.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Important: genetic predisposition is not a sentence. It only increases the likelihood of a severe outcome in the presence of other factors (age, comorbidities, timeliness of treatment). To date, genetic testing for predisposition to influenza is not part of standard practice \u2014 it is used only in scientific research. But if a child has already had severe forms of ARVI or influenza, it is worth paying attention to the presence of chronic pathologies and enhancing prevention.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%D0%A4%D0%B0%D0%BA%D1%82%D0%BE%D1%80%D1%8B_%D1%80%D0%B8%D1%81%D0%BA%D0%B0_%D0%B2%D0%BE%D0%B7%D0%BD%D0%B8%D0%BA%D0%BD%D0%BE%D0%B2%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%8F_%D0%B8_%D1%82%D1%8F%D0%B6%D1%91%D0%BB%D0%BE%D0%B3%D0%BE_%D1%82%D0%B5%D1%87%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%8F_%D0%B3%D1%80%D0%B8%D0%BF%D0%BF%D0%B0_%D1%83_%D0%B4%D0%B5%D1%82%D0%B5%D0%B9\"><\/span>Risk factors for the occurrence and severe course of influenza in children<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Risk factors can be divided into three groups: **biological**, **environmental**, and **behavioral**.<br \/>\n<strong>Biological:<\/strong><br \/>\n\u2014 Age under 2 years (immature immune system);<br \/>\n\u2014 Chronic diseases: bronchial asthma, cystic fibrosis, HPV, immunodeficiencies (congenital or acquired, for example, in HIV);<br \/>\n\u2014 Prematurity (especially at less than 32 weeks gestation);<br \/>\n\u2014 Obesity (BMI &gt; 95th percentile for age);<br \/>\n\u2014 Presence of neurological disorders (cerebral palsy, epilepsy) that increase the risk of aspiration and respiratory failure.<br \/>\n<strong>Environmental:<\/strong><br \/>\n\u2014 Close living conditions (kindergartens, schools, large families);<br \/>\n\u2014 Air pollution (PM2.5, NO\u2082) \u2014 reduces the barrier function of the respiratory mucosa;<br \/>\n\u2014 Seasonality: the highest risk is in the winter months with low humidity (&lt;30%) and a temperature of +15\u2026+20\u00b0C indoors, which contributes to the survival of the virus in aerosol for up to 24 hours.<br \/>\n<strong>Behavioral:<\/strong><br \/>\n\u2014 Refusal of vaccination;<br \/>\n\u2014 Late consultation with a doctor (more than 48 hours from the onset of symptoms);<br \/>\n\u2014 Self-treatment with antibiotics (which is not only useless against the virus but also provokes dysbiosis and resistance);<br \/>\n\u2014 Insufficient fluid intake and hypodynamia during illness \u2014 slow down the elimination of toxins and recovery.<br \/>\nIf your child has at least two factors from the list \u2014 it is worth discussing with a pediatrician a plan of action in case of a rise in temperature and weakness. Don\u2019t wait until it gets \u201cbad\u201d \u2014 preparation is your main shield.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%D0%94%D0%B8%D0%B0%D0%B3%D0%BD%D0%BE%D1%81%D1%82%D0%B8%D0%BA%D0%B0_%D0%B3%D1%80%D0%B8%D0%BF%D0%BF%D0%B0_%D0%BA%D0%B0%D0%BA_%D0%BE%D1%82%D0%BB%D0%B8%D1%87%D0%B8%D1%82%D1%8C_%D0%BE%D1%82_%D0%9E%D0%A0%D0%92%D0%98_%D0%B8_%D0%BA%D0%BE%D0%B3%D0%B4%D0%B0_%D0%BD%D1%83%D0%B6%D0%B5%D0%BD_%D1%82%D0%B5%D1%81%D1%82\"><\/span>Diagnosis of influenza: how to distinguish it from ARVI and when a test is needed<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The main rule: **not all febrile conditions in children are influenza**. But if the symptoms started suddenly, with a sharp rise in temperature to 39\u201340\u00b0C, severe weakness, headache, and body aches \u2014 the likelihood of influenza is high. Especially if there are already confirmed cases in the vicinity.<br \/>\n<strong>Main symptoms of influenza in children:<\/strong><br \/>\n\u2014 High fever (often without a prodromal period);<br \/>\n\u2014 Intoxication: lethargy, refusal to eat, crying without tears, \"empty gaze\";<br \/>\n\u2014 Muscle and joint pain (the child does not want to stand, walk, asks to be \"held in arms\");<br \/>\n\u2014 Headache (in older children \u2014 complaints of pain in the forehead, behind the eyes);<br \/>\n\u2014 Cough \u2014 dry, paroxysmal, appears on the 2nd\u20133rd day;<br \/>\n\u2014 Runny nose \u2014 usually moderate, later than with ARVI;<br \/>\n\u2014 Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea may occur (more often in children under 5 years \u2014 this is not \"stomach flu,\" but a systemic reaction).<br \/>\n<strong>Laboratory diagnostics:<\/strong><br \/>\n\u2014 Rapid influenza antigen test (swab from the nose\/throat) \u2014 result in 15\u201330 minutes. Accuracy 50\u201370% (false-negative results are possible, especially if taken late \u2014 after 48 hours from the onset of symptoms);<br \/>\n\u2014 PCR diagnostics \u2014 \"gold standard.\" Detects viral RNA with accuracy &gt;95%. Done from a swab or rinse from the nasopharynx. Time \u2014 2\u20134 hours in most laboratories;<br \/>\n\u2014 Serological method (ELISA for antibodies) \u2014 is rarely used, only for retrospective assessment (2\u20133 weeks after the illness).<br \/>\n<strong>Radiological examinations:<\/strong><br \/>\nNot needed in mild cases. But if there are signs of respiratory failure (increased work of accessory muscles, respiratory rate &gt;40 per minute in children aged 1\u20135 years), or if the temperature does not subside for 5 days \u2014 a chest X-ray is performed to rule out pneumonia. In children under 3 years, ultrasound examination of the lungs is more often used \u2014 safe and informative.<br \/>\n<strong>Differential diagnosis:<\/strong><br \/>\nInfluenza needs to be distinguished from:<br \/>\n\u2014 Adenovirus infection (often with conjunctivitis and enlarged tonsils);<br \/>\n\u2014 RSV (always with bronchiolitis, wheezing, in small children);<br \/>\n\u2014 Whooping cough (paroxysmal cough with \"whooping\" vomiting, but without high fever);<br \/>\n\u2014 Bacterial tonsillitis (angina): sore throat predominates, high temperature, but no aches and weakness in the first hours.<br \/>\nIf in doubt \u2014 it is better to do a rapid test. It is available in clinics, some pharmacies, and emergency services. And yes \u2014 even if the test is negative, but the clinical picture is typical for influenza, the doctor may prescribe antiviral therapy empirically, especially during the epidemic season.<\/p><script data-noptimize=\"\" data-wpfc-render=\"false\">\nfpm_start( \"true\" );\n<\/script>\n\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%D0%9B%D0%B5%D1%87%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%B8%D0%B5_%D0%B3%D1%80%D0%B8%D0%BF%D0%BF%D0%B0_%D1%83_%D0%B4%D0%B5%D1%82%D0%B5%D0%B9_%D1%87%D1%82%D0%BE_%D1%80%D0%B0%D0%B1%D0%BE%D1%82%D0%B0%D0%B5%D1%82_%D0%B0_%D1%87%D1%82%D0%BE_%E2%80%94_%D0%BD%D0%B5%D1%82\"><\/span>Treatment of influenza in children: what works and what does not<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Treating influenza is not about \"treating the virus,\" but about helping the body cope with it and preventing complications. The main principles:<br \/>\n<strong>1. Antiviral therapy (pharmacological):**<br \/>\n\u2014 <\/strong><strong>Oseltamivir<\/strong> (Tamiflu, Nomides) \u2014 the drug of choice for children from 2 weeks of age. Dosage depends on body weight:<br \/>\n\u2003\u2022 Up to 15 kg \u2014 30 mg twice a day;<br \/>\n\u2003\u2022 15\u201323 kg \u2014 45 mg twice;<br \/>\n\u2003\u2022 23\u201340 kg \u2014 60 mg twice;<br \/>\n\u2003\u2022 &gt;40 kg \u2014 75 mg twice.<br \/>\nCourse \u2014 5 days. It should be started within **48 hours** of the onset of symptoms \u2014 otherwise, effectiveness decreases. In children with severe illness (hospitalized), the course may be extended to 10 days.<br \/>\n\u2014 <strong>Zanamivir** (Relenza) \u2014 inhalation powder, approved from 5 years. Less convenient for small children, as it requires cooperation during inhalation. Effective against A and B.<br \/>\n\u2014 <\/strong><strong>Baloxavir marboxil** (Xofluza) \u2014 a new drug, acts on a different target (cap-dependent endonuclease). Approved from 5 years, course \u2014 1 day (one dose). But so far, there is little safety data for children under 12 \u2014 used in exceptional cases.<br \/>\n<\/strong><strong>2. Symptomatic therapy:**<br \/>\n\u2014 Antipyretics: paracetamol (from 1 month) or ibuprofen (from 6 months). The dose is strictly by weight: paracetamol \u2014 15 mg\/kg every 4\u20136 hours, ibuprofen \u2014 10 mg\/kg every 6\u20138 hours. Never give aspirin \u2014 risk of Reye's syndrome!<br \/>\n\u2014 Hydration: drinking should be abundant \u2014 1.5\u20132 ml per 1 kg of body weight per hour (in the first day). Better \u2014 electrolyte solutions (Regidron Bio, Gastrolit) than tea or juice.<br \/>\n\u2014 Cough remedies \u2014 only for dry, painful cough and only as prescribed by a doctor. Codeine and other opioids are prohibited until 18 years old. Allowed: butamirate (Sinekod), prenoxdiazine (Linkas), or herbal (Gedelix, Doctor Mom) \u2014 but with caution in allergic individuals.<br \/>\n<\/strong><strong>3. Surgical treatment \u2014 not applied.**<br \/>\nInfluenza \u2014 a viral infection, no operations needed. Exception \u2014 complications: for example, lung abscess or pleural empyema \u2014 then drainage is required, but this is no longer \"treatment of influenza,\" but treatment of a complication.<br \/>\n<\/strong><strong>4. Folk remedies and \"grandmother's methods\":**<br \/>\n\u2014 Hot foot baths during fever \u2014 dangerous: can provoke seizures.<br \/>\n\u2014 Garlic, onion in the nose \u2014 ineffective and injure the mucosa.<br \/>\n\u2014 Steam inhalations \u2014 prohibited during fever (risk of burning the airways).<br \/>\n\u2014 \"Sweating it out\" \u2014 a myth. Sweating does not eliminate the virus \u2014 it regulates temperature. Better \u2014 a cool damp wrap (not cold!) and abundant drinking.<br \/>\nIf you think: \"Maybe we should just wait it out?\" \u2014 remember: in children, the flu can worsen within 12\u201324 hours. The \"second rise\" in temperature on days 4\u20135 is especially dangerous \u2014 this is often a sign of bacterial pneumonia. Don't wait \u2014 observe, record symptoms, and seek help in time.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%D0%A1%D0%BF%D0%B8%D1%81%D0%BE%D0%BA_%D0%BB%D0%B5%D0%BA%D0%B0%D1%80%D1%81%D1%82%D0%B2_%D0%BF%D1%80%D0%B8%D0%BC%D0%B5%D0%BD%D1%8F%D0%B5%D0%BC%D1%8B%D1%85_%D0%BF%D1%80%D0%B8_%D0%B3%D1%80%D0%B8%D0%BF%D0%BF%D0%B5_%D1%83_%D0%B4%D0%B5%D1%82%D0%B5%D0%B9\"><\/span>List of medications used for flu in children<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Here is a verified list of medications approved and recommended by the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation and WHO for children (indicating minimum age and key restrictions):<\/p>\n<table border=\"1\" cellpadding=\"5\" cellspacing=\"0\">\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Preparation<\/strong><\/td>\n<td><strong>Release form<\/strong><\/td>\n<td><strong>Min. age<\/strong><\/td>\n<td><strong>Features<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Oseltamivir<\/td>\n<td>Capsules, granules for suspension<\/td>\n<td>2 weeks<\/td>\n<td>First choice. Granules dissolve easily in water. Do not combine with the flu vaccine (interval \u226548 hours after the last dose).<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Zanamivir<\/td>\n<td>Powder for inhalation<\/td>\n<td>5 years<\/td>\n<td>Requires good cooperation. Contraindicated in patients with a history of bronchial asthma.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Paracetamol<\/td>\n<td>Syrup, candles, tablets<\/td>\n<td>1 month (syrup), 3 months (candles)<\/td>\n<td>Safe at the correct dose. Avoid combined products (e.g., \"Teraflu Children's\") \u2014 they contain antihistamines and vasoconstrictor components, unnecessary for influenza.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Ibuprofen<\/td>\n<td>Syrup, tablets, candles<\/td>\n<td>6 months<\/td>\n<td>More effective for muscle pain. Do not give in case of dehydration or kidney failure.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Regidron Bio<\/td>\n<td>Powder for solution<\/td>\n<td>From birth<\/td>\n<td>Restores electrolytes. Give between meals, not instead of them.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Sinecod<\/td>\n<td>Drops, syrup, tablets<\/td>\n<td>2 months (drops), 3 years (syrup)<\/td>\n<td>Cough suppressant, does not depress breathing. Do not combine with mucolytics (Lazolvan, Ambrobene) \u2014 the effect will be opposite.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/table>\n<p>Important: **no antibiotics without a doctor's prescription**. They do not act on viruses and only harm the microflora. If the temperature does not subside after 5 days, there is purulent discharge from the nose, and breathing has worsened \u2014 then the doctor may prescribe antibiotics to combat bacterial infection, but not \"just in case.\"<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%D0%9C%D0%BE%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%82%D0%BE%D1%80%D0%B8%D0%BD%D0%B3_%D1%82%D0%B5%D1%87%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%8F_%D0%B3%D1%80%D0%B8%D0%BF%D0%BF%D0%B0_%D0%BA%D0%BE%D0%BD%D1%82%D1%80%D0%BE%D0%BB%D1%8C%D0%BD%D1%8B%D0%B5_%D1%8D%D1%82%D0%B0%D0%BF%D1%8B_%D0%BF%D1%80%D0%BE%D0%B3%D0%BD%D0%BE%D0%B7_%D0%B8_%D0%BE%D1%81%D0%BB%D0%BE%D0%B6%D0%BD%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%8F\"><\/span>Monitoring the course of influenza: control stages, prognosis, and complications<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Influenza in children requires careful observation \u2014 not every day, but by key markers. Here is a checklist that I recommend parents keep in the first 5 days:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Day 1\u20132:<\/strong> record the temperature every 4 hours, the state of consciousness (is the child attentive, does he answer questions), the breathing rate (normal: up to 1 year \u2014 up to 50 per min, 1\u20133 years \u2014 up to 40, 3\u20136 years \u2014 up to 35). If breathing has become more frequent and \"shallow\" \u2014 it's a warning sign.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Day 3\u20134:<\/strong> assess appetite and urination. If the child does not drink for 6 hours, urine has become dark and infrequent \u2014 there is dehydration. Urgent fluid correction or hospitalization is needed.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Day 5 and beyond:<\/strong> if the temperature rises again after a drop \u2014 this is a \"second peak,\" almost always indicates a complication (pneumonia, otitis, sinusitis). Be sure to consult a doctor.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><\/strong><strong>Forecast:<\/strong><br \/>\nIn healthy children without chronic diseases, the prognosis is favorable \u2014 recovery occurs within 7\u201310 days. But it is important: fatigue and cough may persist for 2\u20133 weeks \u2014 this is normal if there is no fever and overall deterioration.<br \/>\n<strong>Complications (most common in children):**<br \/>\n\u2014 <\/strong><strong>Pneumonia<\/strong> (bacterial or viral) \u2014 the main reason for hospitalizations;<br \/>\n\u2014 <strong>Otitis media<\/strong> \u2014 especially in children under 5 years old due to the anatomical features of the Eustachian tube;<br \/>\n\u2014 <strong>Bronchiolitis<\/strong> \u2014 when infected with RSV against the background of influenza;<br \/>\n\u2014 <strong>Myocarditis and pericarditis<\/strong> \u2014 rare, but dangerous: the child becomes pale, complains of chest pain, pulse is rapid;<br \/>\n\u2014 <strong>Neurological complications:<\/strong> Febrile seizures (at a temperature &gt;38.5\u00b0C), encephalopathy (drowsiness, vomiting, speech impairment) \u2014 require immediate hospitalization.<br \/>\nIf you notice at least one of these signs \u2014 do not delay a visit to the doctor. It's better to be safe than to treat complications later.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%D0%92%D0%BE%D0%B7%D1%80%D0%B0%D1%81%D1%82%D0%BD%D1%8B%D0%B5_%D0%BE%D1%81%D0%BE%D0%B1%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%BD%D0%BE%D1%81%D1%82%D0%B8_%D1%82%D0%B5%D1%87%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%8F_%D0%B3%D1%80%D0%B8%D0%BF%D0%BF%D0%B0_%D1%83_%D0%B4%D0%B5%D1%82%D0%B5%D0%B9\"><\/span>Age-related features of influenza in children<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Influenza in a child is not a \"small adult.\" Their body reacts differently, and symptoms may be atypical.<br \/>\n<strong>Children under 1 year:<\/strong><br \/>\n\u2014 Often there is no pronounced cough and runny nose \u2014 instead, there is lethargy, refusal to breastfeed\/bottle-feed, vomiting, diarrhea;<br \/>\n\u2014 The temperature may be \"hidden\" \u2014 not up to 40\u00b0C, but 38.5\u201339, while the child is very pale, and the skin feels cold to the touch;<br \/>\n\u2014 The risk of respiratory failure is high \u2014 due to weak musculature and narrow airways. Pay attention to \"retraction\" of the abdomen during inhalation and flaring of the nostrils.<br \/>\n<strong>Children 1\u20133 years:<\/strong><br \/>\n\u2014 Often starts with vomiting and diarrhea \u2014 parents mistake it for an intestinal infection;<br \/>\n\u2014 Characteristic \"breakage\": the child does not want to get up, hides under the blanket, cries when touched;<br \/>\n\u2014 High risk of febrile seizures \u2014 especially with a rapid rise in temperature.<br \/>\n<strong>Children aged 4\u20137 years:<\/strong><br \/>\n\u2014 Can already describe their feelings: \"my head is splitting,\" \"my whole body hurts\";<br \/>\n\u2014 Otitis often joins \u2014 complaints of ear pain, crying when pressing on the tragus;<br \/>\n\u2014 Pseudocroup (laryngotracheitis) is possible \u2014 \"barking\" cough, hoarseness, difficulty breathing \u2014 requires immediate assistance.<br \/>\n<strong>Children aged 8\u201314 years:<\/strong><br \/>\n\u2014 Symptoms are closer to adults: fever, headache, weakness;<br \/>\n\u2014 But there is a nuance: adolescents have a higher risk of myocarditis and psycho-emotional reactions (apathy, anxiety, insomnia);<br \/>\n\u2014 Often ignore symptoms, continue to go to school \u2014 which exacerbates the epidemic and risks their health.<br \/>\nRemember: the younger the child, the less specific the symptoms are. Don't wait for the \"classics\" \u2014 focus on the overall condition. If the child does not recognize you, does not respond to your call, breathes quickly and shallowly \u2014 this is a reason to call an ambulance.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%D0%92%D0%BE%D0%BF%D1%80%D0%BE%D1%81%D1%8B_%D0%B8_%D0%BE%D1%82%D0%B2%D0%B5%D1%82%D1%8B_%D1%81%D0%B0%D0%BC%D1%8B%D0%B5_%D1%87%D0%B0%D1%81%D1%82%D1%8B%D0%B5_%D0%B7%D0%B0%D0%BF%D1%80%D0%BE%D1%81%D1%8B_%D1%80%D0%BE%D0%B4%D0%B8%D1%82%D0%B5%D0%BB%D0%B5%D0%B9\"><\/span>Questions and answers: the most common inquiries from parents<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><strong>Question 1: Is it possible to get a flu shot if the child already has a cold?<\/strong><br \/>\nNo, it is not possible \u2014 if there are signs of ARVI (fever, runny nose, cough), vaccination is postponed until full recovery (at least 2 weeks after the fever subsides). But if it is a mild form without fever \u2014 the decision is made by the doctor. Important: vaccination does not cause the flu \u2014 it uses inactivated or recombinant viruses that cannot reproduce.<br \/>\n<strong>Question 2: Why has the child's temperature been high for 5 days, but he is not getting worse?<\/strong><br \/>\nThis can be normal with the flu. Viral fever often lasts 5\u20137 days. The main thing is not the temperature as a number, but the condition: if the child is drinking, responding, looking into your eyes, breathing calmly \u2014 everything is fine. But if on the 5th day the temperature spikes again after a drop \u2014 this is a warning signal.<br \/>\n<strong>Question 3: Should antiviral medications be given if the flu test is negative?<\/strong><br \/>\nIf the clinical picture is typical for the flu (sudden onset, high fever, intoxication), and the test was done late (after 48 hours), the doctor may prescribe oseltamivir empirically \u2014 especially if the child is in a risk group. But this decision is made only by a specialist, not independently.<br \/>\n<strong>Question 4: How to distinguish flu from ARVI in a child without tests?<\/strong><br \/>\nCompare based on three points:<br \/>\n1. Onset: flu - sudden (within 2-4 hours), ARVI - gradual (1-2 days);<br \/>\n2. Temperature: with flu - 39-40\u00b0C immediately, with ARVI - 37.5-38.5\u00b0C, rarely higher;<br \/>\n3. Condition: with flu - pronounced weakness, \"can't get out of bed\", with ARVI - the child plays, watches cartoons, even with a runny nose.<br \/>\n<strong>Question 5: Can the flu go away without treatment?<\/strong><br \/>\nYes, in healthy children - it can. But the risk of complications remains. Antivirals do not \"kill the virus instantly\", but reduce its replication, shorten fever by 1-2 days, and decrease the likelihood of pneumonia by 60%. It's like insurance - you don't know if there will be an accident, but the seatbelt will save your life.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%D0%A2%D0%B8%D0%BF%D0%B8%D1%87%D0%BD%D1%8B%D0%B5_%D0%BE%D1%88%D0%B8%D0%B1%D0%BA%D0%B8_%D1%80%D0%BE%D0%B4%D0%B8%D1%82%D0%B5%D0%BB%D0%B5%D0%B9_%D0%BF%D1%80%D0%B8_%D0%B3%D1%80%D0%B8%D0%BF%D0%BF%D0%B5_%D1%83_%D1%80%D0%B5%D0%B1%D1%91%D0%BD%D0%BA%D0%B0\"><\/span>Typical mistakes parents make when their child has the flu<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>1. <strong>\"Let's wait until morning\" with a fever of 40\u00b0C and lethargy.<\/strong><br \/>\n - What to do: if the temperature does not decrease after taking an antipyretic, or the child does not respond, does not drink - call an ambulance immediately. Do not wait until morning.<br \/>\n2. <strong>Giving antibiotics \"just in case\".<\/strong><br \/>\n - What to do: antibiotics do not work against viruses. They are prescribed only by a doctor when there is suspicion of a bacterial infection (purulent discharge, second rise in temperature, worsening after 5 days).<br \/>\n3. <strong>Bathing a child with a fever.<\/strong><br \/>\n \u2014 What to do: a bath with water at 36\u201337\u00b0C is acceptable if the child is not shivering and not pale. But not hot, not with the addition of \"medicinal herbs\" \u2014 this does not treat and can provoke collapse.<br \/>\n4. <strong>Ignoring dehydration.<\/strong><br \/>\n \u2014 What to do: count urinations. If there is no urine for 6 hours \u2014 this is a signal. Give Regidron Bio 5 ml every 2\u20133 minutes until they start drinking independently.<br \/>\n5. <strong>Return to kindergarten\/school 2 days after the temperature drops.<\/strong><br \/>\n \u2014 What to do: the child remains contagious for 5\u20137 days from the onset of symptoms. Even if the temperature is normal, the virus is still being shed. Wait at least 7 days \u2014 and only after consulting a doctor.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%D0%97%D0%B0%D0%BA%D0%BB%D1%8E%D1%87%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%B8%D0%B5_%D1%87%D1%82%D0%BE_%D0%B3%D0%BB%D0%B0%D0%B2%D0%BD%D0%BE%D0%B5_%D0%B7%D0%B0%D0%BF%D0%BE%D0%BC%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%82%D1%8C_%D0%BE_%D0%B3%D1%80%D0%B8%D0%BF%D0%BF%D0%B5_%D1%83_%D0%B4%D0%B5%D1%82%D0%B5%D0%B9\"><\/span>Conclusion: what is important to remember about influenza in children<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Influenza in a child is not a \"cold,\" but a serious viral infection that requires attention, but not panic. Key points:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Recognize by <strong>sudden onset<\/strong>, high temperature and pronounced intoxication \u2014 not just a runny nose;<\/li>\n<li>Vaccination is the most effective way to protect yourself. Even if a different strain appears in the season \u2014 it reduces severity;<\/li>\n<li>Antiviral medications work only in the first 48 hours \u2014 do not delay your visit to the doctor;<\/li>\n<li>The main enemy is dehydration and late consultation. Keep a symptom diary;<\/li>\n<li>Don't be afraid to ask the doctor: \"Is this really the flu?\", \"Is a test needed?\", \"What to do if the temperature doesn't go down?\" \u2014 a good doctor will explain.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>As a pediatrician with 18 years of experience, I will say it straight: most severe cases are not due to the virus, but because parents didn't trust their feelings and thought: \"Well, they'll get through it.\" You don't need to be a hero. Take care of your child \u2014 and yourself. May this season pass without hospitalizations, without fear, and without questions like \"What could I have done?\". You are already doing the main thing \u2014 reading, learning, preparing. And I am always nearby, in this article and beyond. Stay healthy.<\/p>\n<div class=\"fpm_end\"><\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Influenza in children is not just a \"cold, but with a fever.\" It is an acute viral respiratory disease caused by RNA influenza viruses.<\/p>","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":24333,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[298],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-17673","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-medlibrary"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17673","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=17673"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17673\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":19227,"href":"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17673\/revisions\/19227"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/24333"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=17673"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=17673"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=17673"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}