It’s unsettling when it seems like your kiddo goes from playful to exhausted in a matter of hours. The good news is that most kids with the flu recover at home with rest and fluids, but it helps to know what’s typical, what deserves a closer look, and what can’t wait.
Common Flu Symptoms in Kids
The flu can look a little different from child to child. Symptoms often include:
- Fever
- Chills
- Body aches
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny nose or congestion
- Decreased appetite
- Vomiting or diarrhea in some children
Younger kids may not be able to tell you that their muscles ache or their head hurts. Instead, you might notice that they’re unusually clingy, fussy, or uninterested in playing.
When Flu Symptoms May Need a Closer Look
It’s normal for your child to feel pretty lousy for a few days. What matters most is the direction things are heading. It may be time to have your child seen if you notice:
- A fever that isn’t improving
- Symptoms that came on suddenly and feel intense
- A cough paired with a fever
- Trouble drinking fluids
- Ear pain
- Symptoms that are getting worse instead of better
And of course, if something about your child’s illness is making you uneasy, trust that feeling!
When Flu Testing for Kids Is a Good Idea
Testing may be helpful when your child’s symptoms point toward flu, when they overlap with other illnesses like COVID, RSV, or strep throat, or when a provider recommends it.
A test result is one piece of the puzzle. Your child’s provider will also listen to your concerns and examine your child before recommending next steps.
When to Visit KidsStreet
Our family-friendly providers at KidsStreet can evaluate flu symptoms that aren’t an emergency and help you figure out what comes next. We provide urgent care for kids, so you’ll find a team that’s used to working with little patients and their worried parents. Bring your child in for:
- Fever
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Body aches
- Fatigue
- Symptoms that may need testing
We can also answer questions you may have about returning to school, daycare, sports, or other activities.
When You Should Go to the ER
The flu can occasionally lead to more serious problems. Go to the nearest emergency room or call 9-1-1 if your child has:
- Trouble breathing
- Blue lips or face
- Chest pain
- Severe dehydration
- Confusion or extreme sleepiness
- A seizure
- Symptoms that feel life-threatening
If you’re ever unsure whether something is an emergency, it’s always okay to choose the emergency room.
What to Expect at KidsStreet for Flu Care
We know a sick child and a waiting room aren’t the easiest combination, so we try to keep things simple. During your visit, you can expect:
- A review of your child’s symptoms
- An exam by a medical provider
- Flu testing when appropriate
- Guidance on next steps
- Instructions on what to watch for at home
Our goal is to help you understand what may be going on and what to do next.
Visit KidsStreet for Flu Symptoms
The flu doesn’t keep business hours, and neither do worried parents.
No worries; KidsStreet is open late 7 days a week! If your child’s flu symptoms have you wondering what to do next, we’re here to help.
Register online to save your spot in line! Online registration is not an appointment, but it can help reduce in-clinic wait times by adding you to the queue before you arrive.