“When should I be concerned about my child's flu?”

"Flu" is a term commonly used to describe any viral illness. True "flu" is INFLUENZA, can be very serious, can be definitively diagnosed with a nasal swab, and there is a treatment available. Your child should be seen by his/her pediatrician for any illness that includes fever (temp > 100.4), change in activity or behavior, pain, vomiting, respiratory symptoms or any other concerns.

Shelley C. Springer, MD, MBA, MSc, JD, FAAP

If the cough worsens, if the fever suddenly shoots up or if he is not getting better.