Flu in Children
Medical Author:
Steven Fine, MD, PhD
Medical Editor:
Mary D. Nettleman, MD, MS, MCAP
Flu in Children OverviewInfluenza is an acute infection caused by any of three types of viruses (A, B, or C). Type A strains are associated with the most severe disease. Many people confuse influenza or flu with the common cold. In 2009, a new type A strain emerged called H1N1. Because there is little immunity in the human population, to the H1N1 strain, it has the ability to spread easily from person to person worldwide and sicken even more people than a usual seasonal strain. When this happens, it is called a pandemic.
Flu in Children CausesThe flu is caused by one of three types of influenza viruses. Types A and B are responsible for the yearly flu epidemics, and type C causes sporadic illness. Type A is further divided into different subtypes based on the chemical structure of the virus. Influenza is highly contagious. The virus is spread when someone either inhales infected droplets in the air (coughed up or sneezed by an infected person) or when someone comes in direct contact with an infected person's secretions (for example, kissing, sharing of handkerchiefs and other items, and through use of objects such as spoons and forks). Flu in Children SymptomsSymptoms may begin two to three days after exposure to the virus. The flu comes on quickly and attacks the upper respiratory system.
Viewer Comments & ReviewsFlu in Children - ExperienceThe eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:Please describe your experience with your children having the flu? |
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Flu in Children
Mild Headache Overview
Headaches are common but usually do not represent a serious illness. Even when headaches do not have a serious cause, they may be quite painful and disrupt your daily activities.
There are many different causes of headache. The pain in different types of headache varies in intensity, location, and duration. Another important feature that helps distinguish among different types of headache is the quality of the pain: whether it is sharp, dull, constant, intermittent, or pounding. Additional symptoms may accompany a headache:
- Dizziness
- Numbness or weakness
- Changes in vision
- Difficulty with balance
- Eye, ear, or facial pain
- Cold symptoms
- Fever
All these factors help determine whether or not a headache needs emergency treatment. Ultimately, the caus...
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Influenza »
Influenza is the one of the most significant acute upper respiratory tract infections.
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