Influenza (Flu)
Pediatricians in Houston, Texas
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Influenza (or flu) is a highly contagious illness that affects kids and adults, causing everything from mild discomfort to serious complications. At Katy Pediatrics, we’re trained to diagnose and treat your child effectively. We also provide vaccines to boost their preventive defenses. If your child shows flu-like symptoms, schedule an appointment with us now!
What Is Influenza?
Influenza is a viral infection recognized for being very contagious, that attacks the respiratory system. Unlike what many think, the influenza virus isn’t the same as the common cold—it’s stronger and more dangerous.
Kids with developing immune systems love touching every surface, making it easy for this virus to spread if their vaccines aren’t updated, It is highly advisable to take such precautions, as viruses undergo mutations annually.
While a cold is just uncomfortable, the flu can turn serious, leading to pneumonia or even death in rare cases.
Symptoms
The symptoms can be mild or more aggressive depending on several factors, ranging from the strength of the immune system to the variation of the virus that the patient is dealing with, among the most relevant symptoms we can find.
- Fever/chills
- Muscle aches
- Hacking cough
- Extreme tiredness
- Stuffy nose
- Sore throat
- Vomiting or diarrhea
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Prevention and Treatment
The best treatment available is good prevention, getting a flu vaccine for your child can greatly reduce the risk of getting the flu. Most kids vaccinated will not get influenza. Children who do get it will have a less serious case.
In the event of infection, antiviral drugs can make flu symptoms milder, shorten the duration of the illness, and significantly reduce the probability of complications like pneumonia or myocarditis.
Diagnosis
Many parents struggle to tell the difference between influenza, the common cold, the flu, and allergies. Fortunately, our team can easily evaluate your child and determine whether their symptoms are due to the flu.
The treatments are effective, most children will recover successfully in less than a week. However, very young children or those with underlying health conditions may need more immediate attention from our specialists to prevent complications.
Your Trusted Pediatric Practice
At Katy Pediatric Associates, our specialists recognize how important it is to care for your children from discomfort and how prevention can protect you and your family from possible illnesses.
To learn more about the options available for treating influenza and vaccination in Houston, Texas, schedule your visit by calling 281-492-7676 or send us a message online today.