Flu Symptoms in Children: When Parents Should Seek Care

Flu season can be especially stressful for parents in South Texas. Children are more likely to catch the flu due to close contact at school and daycare, and symptoms can progress quickly.

Knowing which symptoms are normal and which require medical evaluation can help parents make confident decisions.

Common Flu Symptoms in Children

Flu symptoms in children are similar to adults but may appear more suddenly and feel more intense. Common symptoms include:

• Fever or chills

• Runny or stuffy nose

• Cough

• Sore throat

• Headache

• Body aches

• Fatigue

• Decreased appetite

Some children may also experience vomiting or diarrhea.

When to Visit Urgent Care for Your Child

Parents should consider bringing their child to urgent care if they experience:

• Fever lasting more than 48 hours

• Fever higher than 102 degrees

• Persistent cough or sore throat

• Vomiting, diarrhea, or signs of dehydration

• Worsening symptoms after initial improvement

• Missed school due to illness

Urgent care providers can evaluate symptoms, perform testing when appropriate, and guide parents on next steps for care.

Children at Higher Risk for Flu Complications

Some children are at increased risk for flu-related complications and should be evaluated early, including:

• Children under 5 years old

• Children with asthma or chronic lung conditions

• Children with weakened immune systems

• Children with heart or metabolic conditions

Early evaluation can help reduce the risk of complications such as pneumonia or severe dehydration.

When the Emergency Room Is Necessary

Parents should seek emergency care if their child has:

• Trouble breathing or rapid breathing

• Bluish lips or face

• Severe lethargy or difficulty waking

• Signs of confusion

• Severe or persistent vomiting

If symptoms appear severe or life-threatening, emergency care should not be delayed.

Why Parents Choose StatCare Urgent Care

StatCare Urgent Care offers walk-in care for children with flu symptoms across South Texas. Families choose urgent care for shorter wait times, extended hours, and convenient access to evaluation and testing.

Learn more about services and locations by visiting www.mystatcare.com.

Helping Your Child Recover

If your child is sick, encourage rest, fluids, and symptom management as recommended by your provider. Keeping children home when ill helps prevent the spread of flu within schools and the community.

Visit your nearest StatCare Urgent Care location for same-day evaluation of flu symptoms in children. Walk-ins are welcome.