Parents urged to check for symptoms of ‘Influenza A’ in children before it’s too late

Parents urged to check for symptoms of ‘Influenza A’ in children before it’s too late Parents urged to check for symptoms of ‘Influenza A’ in children before it’s too late Parents urged to check for symptoms of ‘Influenza A’ in children before it’s too late

During the rainy season, many types of viruses spread, causing some schools to declare class suspensions for certain grades. One of the common epidemics that affects people of all ages is influenza (flu). This illness can be found year-round, but it is especially prevalent during the rainy and winter seasons. Similar to this article, which talks about an illness with severe symptoms, parents must be aware of influenza A and read this article without hesitation.

The cause of infection from the Influenza Virus comes from the virus present in the mucus, saliva, or phlegm of an infected person. Children can contract the virus through coughing, sneezing, or breathing in close proximity to one another.

Influenza has several strains, categorized into three major groups:

  1. Influenza A, such as H1N1 and H3N2
  2. Influenza B
  3. Influenza C

Currently, the most common illness is caused by the Influenza A H3N2 strain, followed by Influenza B. Influenza C is very rarely found. The influenza virus strains tend to change almost every year, and sometimes they can mutate into more severe strains, such as H5N1 (avian flu) or H1N1 (2009 swine flu).

How does a common cold differ from Influenza?
​While the two may appear similar, Influenza A tends to be much more severe. Here are key differences:

  • High fever: Influenza A often causes a high fever of 39-40°C that doesn't easily subside, even after taking fever-reducing medications.
  • Body aches and headaches: More intense body aches and severe headaches are common with Influenza A.
  • Extreme fatigue: People with Influenza A experience significant weakness and exhaustion, often wanting to sleep all the time.
  • Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea: In young children, these digestive symptoms are more commonly seen with Influenza A.
  • Runny nose, cough, sore throat: Similar to a regular cold, but usually accompanied by more severe respiratory discomfort.
  • Complications: Influenza A can lead to complications like middle ear infections, bronchitis, and pneumonia, especially in high-risk groups such as children under 2 years old or those with chronic conditions like heart disease, lung issues, asthma, diabetes, thalassemia, cancer, and obesity.

Here are some initial care tips for when your child contracts **Influenza A**:
- Self-recovery: Influenza typically resolves on its own if the symptoms are not severe.
- Antiviral medication: For high-risk individuals who may experience severe symptoms, doctors may prescribe antiviral medication (Oseltamivir). It is most effective when administered within 48 hours of symptom onset.
​- Symptomatic treatment: Provide medications to relieve various symptoms that may make your child uncomfortable, such as decongestants for runny nose, mucolytics for phlegm, fever reducers, and nasal sprays to relieve congestion.

Here are some prevention tips to keep your child safe from Influenza A:

  1. Wash hands regularly: Ensure your child washes their hands with soap and water, especially before eating and after going outside.
  2. Wear masks: Use face masks when around others, particularly in crowded places.
  3. Cough etiquette: Cover the nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, dispose of tissues in a covered trash bin, and wash hands thoroughly afterward.
  4. Avoid close contact: Keep your child away from individuals who are sick with influenza.
  5. Avoid crowded places: Limit exposure to crowded areas to reduce the risk of infection.
  6. No sharing items: Do not share drinking cups, straws, utensils, or towels, especially with someone who is ill.
  7. Use serving spoons: Always use serving spoons when eating with others.
  8. Stay home if sick: If your child is diagnosed with influenza, they should stay home from school for 3-7 days to prevent spreading the virus.
  9. Vaccination: Ensure your child receives the flu vaccine, which is recommended starting at 6 months of age, given once a year. For children receiving the vaccine for the first time, two doses (one month apart) are necessary. The vaccine composition changes yearly, so it should be administered annually, preferably before the outbreak period, typically from April to May.

Heartfelt thanks for useful information from Ms. Piyarat ‘Ann’ Lertbannaphong, M.D., a pediatric specialist.

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