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At Healthfully, we strive to deliver objective content that is accurate and up-to-date. Our team periodically reviews articles in order to ensure content quality. The sources cited below consist of evidence from peer-reviewed journals, prominent medical organizations, academic associations, and government data.
- United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Seasonal Influenza: Flu Symptoms and Severity
- The Mayo Clinic: Influenza (flu): Definition
- The Mayo Clinic: Influenza (flu): Symptoms
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Flu Symptoms in a 3 Year Old
An average of 20,000 children under the age of 5 are hospitalized for complications resulting from the influenza virus each year, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Service. Children are more at risk for contracting the flu than adults and the majority of flu symptoms aren't exclusive to children. Learning to recognize symptoms early ensures swift, prompt treatment for your entire family.
If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, seek emergency treatment immediately.
Fever
A fever alone is not indicative of the flu. KidsHealth.org points out that a fever can occur even with the common cold 3. It's the nature of the fever that raises warning signs among concerned parents. A sudden onset of fever accompanied by chills is a strong indicator your child is coming down with the flu. Kids who have the flu can have a temperature over 100 degrees Fahrenheit, but may report feeling cold or have a moderate temperature. Watch your child for physical signs of a fever. In addition to taking her temperature, look for flushed, warm skin. Also, you can't assume that illness without a fever isn't the flu. The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention cautions that not everyone who comes down with the flu runs a fever. Since a fever can quickly rise to dangerous levels, seek medical attention as soon as possible if a fever persists and does not respond to treatment.
- A fever alone is not indicative of the flu.
- KidsHealth.org points out that a fever can occur even with the common cold 3.
Respiratory System
Flu Symptoms in a 16 Month Old
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The flu is a virus that primarily targets the respiratory system, according to MayoClinic.com. If you suspect your 3-year old has the flu, listen for a dry hacking cough. Watch your child for sniffling or frequent nose blowing – indicators that she has a runny or stuffy nose. A sore throat can accompany these respiratory systems, either as a direct symptom of the flu itself or as a result of post-nasal discharge from a runny nose.
- The flu is a virus that primarily targets the respiratory system, according to MayoClinic.com.
- Watch your child for sniffling or frequent nose blowing – indicators that she has a runny or stuffy nose.
Musculoskeletal System
Your child's activity level can suddenly decline at the rapid onset of the flu and he might report feeling more tired than usual. The CDC lists fatigue as one of the symptoms of the flu 2. If general tiredness is coupled with unpleasant muscle and body aches, your 3-year old may be experiencing the flu. Some kids with the flu experience headaches, which may be due to sinus congestion.
- Your child's activity level can suddenly decline at the rapid onset of the flu and he might report feeling more tired than usual.
- If general tiredness is coupled with unpleasant muscle and body aches, your 3-year old may be experiencing the flu.
Gastrointestinal System
High Fever Lasting More Than Five Days in Children
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Kids experience gastrointestinal upset more frequently than adults, according to the CDC. Kids with the flu might vomit or experience diarrhea. These symptoms are usually caused by the virus itself, but may also be the result of excess phlegm and sputum. Diarrhea and vomiting can lead to dehydration, particularly in children. Speak to your doctor if your 3-year old is unable to keep down clear fluids when battling the flu.
- Kids experience gastrointestinal upset more frequently than adults, according to the CDC.
- Diarrhea and vomiting can lead to dehydration, particularly in children.
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References
- The Mayo Clinic: Influenza (flu): Definition
- The Mayo Clinic: Influenza (flu): Symptoms
- Nemours Foundation: Kidshealth.org: Is it a Cold or The Flu?
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Flu symptoms & complications. Updated September 18, 2019.
- MedlinePlus. Fever. Updated February 4, 2020.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Disease burden of influenza. Updated January 10, 2020.
Writer Bio
Elizabeth Tumbarello has been writing since 2006, with her work appearing on various websites. She is an animal lover who volunteers with her local Humane Society. Tumbarello attended Hocking College and is pursuing her Associate of Applied Science in veterinary technology from San Juan College.