Influenza is more severe in children, especially between the ages of six and 12 months. Children with influenza may have the same symptoms as adults, but there are some differences in babies and toddlers.

For example:

• A fever can be the only symptom of influenza in babies
• Seizures, or other central nervous system symptoms, may appear in some infants. Children may also have headache, vomiting, irritability and sensitive eyes
• Young children usually have higher temperatures, often over 39.5°C (103.1°F)
• About half of children three years old or younger have symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and stomach pain
• Influenza viruses can cause croup, pneumonia or bronchitis in young children
• Ear infections and red, sore eyes are more frequent in young children. Sore muscles are also common
• Note: Very young children and infants may be irritable and eat poorly. They sometimes have a hoarse cry and barking cough. Children over five years old and adolescents have the same symptoms as adults.

Use acetaminophen (for example Tylenol) for fever and muscle pain. Take the child's temperature first. Do not wake a child to give medication. Ibuprofen (for example Motrin) is another option, but it should not be used for infants less than four months old.

Children under 18 should NOT take acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) for example Aspirin or any products containing ASA. Combined with influenza, ASA can cause Reye's Syndrome, a very serious condition affecting the nervous system and liver.

Dress a child in lightweight clothing and keep room temperature at 20°C children with influenza have fever. So whether or not a child has a fever is not helpful as a sign of how severe their illness is.