What are the Swine Flu Symptoms in Children

Parents, teachers or any concerned person should be alarmed about swine flu symptoms in children, but it should always be kept in mind that this disease is not always fatal. Most people with the H1N1 infection do not show serious complications. Children are considered more vulnerable to be troubled with severe complications of the disease.

Some common symptoms of Swine Flu are –

• Fever
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Chills and fatigue
• Headache
• Body aches
• At times, vomiting and diarrhoea

The symptoms in particular to children are problems in breathing and much reduced activity. This is similar to any other flu infection. Parents should pay special attention to the risk of swine flu in children below the age of 5 years. They are more prone to developing severe respiratory problems like pneumonia. If the child has a chronic medical condition, his risks of swine flu complications increase.

Be on your guard and seek immediate medical attention if your child shows any of these warning signs –

• Bluish or gray skin color.
• Problem in breathing or rapid breathing.
• Not waking up or not interacting.
• Fluid intake very low.
• Is irritable and does not want to be held.
• Is not urinating and shows no tears when crying.
• The symptoms show improvement, only to return with worsened cough.

Swine Flu in Children can be treated with anti-viral medication and fever reducing drugs, ibuprofen and Acetaminophen. Medicines for common cold like Aspirin should be avoided for treating the child’s fever. The sick child should also be made to drink a lot of water as dehydration is one of risks associated with swine flu.

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