When people say that they have the flu, they usually really have a cold or upper respiratory tract infection. A cold is caused by one of about two hundred viruses; the flu is caused by the influenza virus. Influenza occurs during most winters, often varying in extent and severity. It is usually a mild illness in children, but in adults, especially the elderly and those with other chronic medical conditions, it can be more serious.

Cause

Influenza is caused by the influenza virus.

Clinical features

The features of the flu in children are usually very similar to those seen in an upper respiratory tract infection. The onset may be more rapid, and often there are more systemic symptoms (that is, more generalised symptoms such as fever, headache, aches in the rest of the body, feeling very hot or very cold, shivering and so on).

Investigations

No investigations are usually necessary.

Treatment is for symptoms only, and consists of paracetamol, fluids and the other measures described for the treatment of upper respiratory tract infections. Antibiotics are not helpful, and there is no treatment that can shorten the course or severity of the flu.

When to see your doctor

See as for upper respiratory tract infections (colds).

Prevention

There is no effective way to prevent the flu. Some parents will want their child immunised against the influenza virus, but this can never be 100% effective and is not recommended for the normal healthy child.

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