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Influenza, Pediatric

Kristen A. Feemster, MD, MPH, MSHP Reviewed 10/2018
 


BASICS

DESCRIPTION

An acute febrile illness characterized by fever, malaise, and respiratory symptoms 

EPIDEMIOLOGY

  • Although influenza affects people of all ages, the highest morbidity and mortality occu...

DIAGNOSIS

Clinical case definition of influenza-like illness is fever (≥100°F) AND cough and/or sore throat but may look similar to other respiratory illnesses. 
  • Positive predictive value of these symp...

TREATMENT

GENERAL MEASURES

  • Most patients with influenza infection require supportive oral hydration, antipyresis, and routine decongestant therapy.

  • With the exception of young infants, previously health...

ONGOING CARE

FOLLOW-UP RECOMMENDATIONS

Patient Monitoring

  • Signs to watch for:

    • Clinical signs of secondary bacterial infection

    • Deteriorating mental or respiratory status after initial improvement

    • Myoglobinu...

ADDITIONAL READING

  • Chung EY, Huang L, Schneider L. Safety of influenza vaccine administration in egg-allergic patients. Pediatrics.  2010;125(5):e1024–e1030. [View Abstract on OvidInsights]

  • Dawood...

CODES

ICD9

  • 487.1 Influenza with other respiratory manifestations

  • 488.12 Influenza due to identified 2009 H1N1 influenza virus with other respiratory manifestations

  • 487.0 Influenza with pneumonia

  • 488.19 In...

FAQ

  • Q: When is it safe for a child with influenza to return to day care or school?

  • A: Older children with influenza may shed the virus in nasal secretions for up to 7 days from onset of symptoms and yo...

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