Sick with the flu: When to go to the ER

When children experience flu symptoms, parents and caregivers are often unsure when they should call the doctor or when to take their child to the hospital. Children with the flu can typically be treated at home with rest and fluids. A trip to the emergency room (ER) should not be necessary for most cases of the flu. However, there are certain warning signs parents can watch for to know when to seek medical attention.

When should I take my child to the ER for the flu?

Children of all ages should be taken to the ER for flu if they experience any of the following emergency warning signs:

• Trouble breathing or ribs pulling in with each breath
• Bluish lips or skin
• Unresponsiveness
• Chest pain
• Serious muscle pain (child refuses to move or walk)
• Seizures
• Severe dehydration with decreased urination (no urine for more than eight hours), dry mouth or sunken eyes
• Fever or cough that improve then return or worsen
• Fever above 104˚F that does not go down with fever-reducing medicine

If you have a newborn, look for these additional warning signs and seek medical help if they:

• Are not eating
• Have trouble breathing
• Cry without tears or have significantly fewer wet diapers
• Have a fever and younger than 3 months old

It's important to know that for children older than 3 months, a fever by itself may not warrant a trip to the ER. If your child has a fever that gets better with acetaminophen or ibuprofen, that's a sign that the child does not need to go to the ER.

If your child does need to go to the ER, try to avoid bringing additional children or family members. Bringing extra family members to the ER can increase their likelihood of getting the flu or another illness.

When should I see a pediatrician for the flu?

The flu can usually be treated at home with rest and liquids, but occasionally children can experience serious complications from the flu. If you are concerned about your child's flu symptoms, but they are not emergency warning signs, contact your pediatrician first as they know your child’s medical history and specific needs. Consider calling your pediatrician if your child:

• Is lethargic
• Has a fever for more than three days
• Has trouble drinking or will not drink liquids
• Does not urinate at least every eight hours
• Has any other symptoms you think are severe or concerning

How long does the flu last in children?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), if your child has the flu, they are contagious as early as one day before symptoms develop – and up to five to seven days after.

Parents can help avoid sickness and a trip to the ER by ensuring everyone in their family older than 6 months receives a flu shot. See tips for easing a child's fear of shots and more ways to prevent and treat the flu to keep your entire family healthy during flu season.

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