Influenza is Here!

February 17, 2007 by Kenneth Carlson, MD 

Influenza (respiratory flu) is now at high levels in Oregon. For weekly updates check out CDC Flu information. This is causing us to be quite busy in the office. We recently saw a record number of patients in a day (over 220). We apologize in advance for having fewer appointments available. Please call early in the day if you are concerned your child may need to a same day appointment. Read on for short description of typical symptoms and treatment advice for influenza.

Symptoms

Compared to other respiratory viruses influenza often has higher fever that lasts up to five days. Patients often complain of lots of muscle aches, weakness, and dizziness. Other typical cold symptoms are common including sore throat, headache, and red, irritated eyes.

Treatment

Treatment is primarily supportive, with the primary goal of making a child feel more comfortable. Rest, lots of fluids and pain medicines (like Tylenol© or ibuprofen) for fever and muscle aches.

Does my child need to see the doctor?

Influenza is a viral illness so antibiotics are not helpful against the main infection. Secondary bacterial infections, like ear infections and pneumonia sometimes occur. If a child is complaining of persistent ear pain than ear infection is possible. Pneumonia is a concern when there are changes in how fast a child is breathing or how hard they are working to breathe.

If a child has asthma and their rescue inhalers (albuterol) are not relieving wheezing or labored breathing they should also be evaluated by their doctor. If your child needs refills on their asthma medications, call your pharmacy.

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