Flu season hits Utah hard every winter, and kids are often the first to come down with symptoms like a runny nose, cough, and fever. The influenza virus spreads easily, and for parents, it can be tough to balance comfort care with recognizing when symptoms may need medical attention. For children—especially those with a weakened immune system or other high-risk factors like asthma or diabetes—flu symptoms can sometimes lead to serious illness. Recognizing the symptoms early and understanding when to head to urgent care can help make the season a little easier.
Symptoms of the Flu
1. Fever and Chills
Fever and chills are usually the first signs that your child may be coming down with the flu. A sudden spike in temperature can make your little one feel miserable, and those chills can lead to lots of blankets and shivering. While a mild fever can actually help fight off the virus, it’s important to keep your child comfortable and watch for any signs that the fever might be too high.
How to Alleviate:
While a mild fever helps the body fight the virus, a high fever that won’t go down with over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen may require additional care. Antiviral medications and fever-reducing medications, like Tamiflu or Relenza, can help reduce flu symptoms, shorten the illness by one to two days, and lower the risk of complications or hospitalization. Studies indicate that these antivirals are most effective when started within the first two days of symptoms, but beginning treatment later can still provide benefits, especially for high-risk children and patients. Be sure to encourage rest, as it helps the body fight off the flu. Avoid piling on too many blankets—stick to light layers so they don’t get too hot.
When to Visit Urgent Care:
If your child’s fever reaches 104°F or higher, or if it lasts more than three days, it’s time to call a doctor. Premier Family Medical in Utah has experienced providers who can check for complications and provide extra care if needed. Don’t hesitate to reach out if your child’s fever seems unusual or if you’re just not sure what to do next.
2. Sore Throat
A sore throat can be especially tough for kids, as it makes everything from eating to talking uncomfortable. For young children, it can lead to extra fussiness, and they might struggle to explain the discomfort. Sore throats are common with the flu virus and can feel even worse in Utah’s dry winter air.
How to Alleviate:
Start by keeping your child hydrated. Warm fluids, like chamomile tea or warm water with honey (for kids over one year old), can help soothe the throat. You might also consider using a humidifier in their room, especially in our Utah climate, to add some moisture to the air and reduce irritation. Popsicles can be a great way to keep kids hydrated while also giving them a little relief.
When to Visit Urgent Care:
If your child’s sore throat lasts more than a few days or they’re having trouble swallowing, it may be worth a visit to the doctor. Persistent sore throats could sometimes indicate a secondary infection, like strep, which needs a different approach. Premier Family Medical’s team is always ready to check symptoms and help determine if further care is necessary.
3. Cough and Congestion
Coughing and congestion are some of the most frustrating flu symptoms, especially for kids. A cough can make it hard for them to sleep and may lead to a sore chest or even a tummy ache from all that coughing. Congestion, on the other hand, often makes breathing difficult and can cause headaches and fatigue.
How to Alleviate:
For cough relief, try using a cool-mist humidifier in your child’s room at night, which can make breathing easier. Saline nasal spray are a gentle way to clear up a their sinuses and stuffy nose, and steam from a warm shower can provide short-term relief. Elevating your child’s head while they sleep, such as with an extra pillow, can help ease nighttime coughing. You could also try honey to soothe their throat (for children over one years of age).
When to Visit Urgent Care:
While a mild cough is typical with the flu, if it’s persisting for more than a week, or if your child has trouble breathing or wheezing, it’s best to reach out to a healthcare provider. Premier Family Medical’s Utah locations are equipped to help evaluate respiratory symptoms and offer treatments that can make breathing easier.
4. Body Aches and Fatigue
Flu-related body aches and fatigue can make even the most active kids want to curl up and rest. These aches are a natural part of the flu as the body works to fight off the virus. You might notice your child seems unusually tired, wants to lie down often, or complains about their muscles and joints feeling sore.
How to Alleviate:
The best thing you can do for body aches and fatigue is to encourage rest. Let your child take naps as needed, and keep activities light. A warm bath or gentle massage can also help ease sore muscles and make them feel more relaxed. Make sure they’re drinking plenty of fluids to help their body stay hydrated as it recovers. Sometimes, a cozy blanket and a favorite movie can be just what they need to relax and get some rest.
When to Visit Urgent Care:
If your child’s fatigue seems extreme or if they’re experiencing persistent body pain that doesn’t improve, it may be time to visit urgent care. Unusual drowsiness, difficulty waking up, or severe aches that make movement painful can be signs that extra help is needed. Premier Family Medical’s urgent care facilities in Utah are ready to provide the support your child needs if symptoms are intense or lingering longer than expected.
5. Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea and vomiting, while less common with the flu, can still affect some kids and add to their discomfort. These symptoms can also lead to dehydration, which is particularly concerning in Utah’s dry climate. If your child is feeling queasy or having trouble keeping food down, they may be reluctant to eat or drink, which can make recovery slower.
How to Alleviate:
To help manage nausea, keep meals light and simple—think toast, applesauce, or rice. Hydration is key, so encourage small sips of water, electrolyte-rich fluids, or even ice chips if they’re unable to drink much at once. Avoid overly sweet or acidic drinks, as these can sometimes worsen nausea. Popsicles can be a great way to keep them hydrated without upsetting their stomach.
When to Visit Urgent Care:
It’s important to keep an eye out for signs of dehydration, which can escalate quickly if your child is vomiting frequently. Look for dry lips, fewer trips to the bathroom, or a lack of energy. If your child is unable to keep fluids down for more than 24 hours or shows signs of severe dehydration, it’s time to visit urgent care. Premier Family Medical’s Utah locations can provide hydration support and guidance on managing symptoms safely.
Pro Tip: The flu vaccine helps reduce the risk of serious complications and can protect them from other respiratory illnesses, including RSV, that commonly spread during flu season.
Stay Ahead of Flu Season with Urgent Care in Utah
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises that parents closely monitor flu symptoms, especially in high-risk children, as the flu virus can quickly lead to respiratory illness or complications. If your child’s symptoms worsen or include severe coughing, difficulty breathing, or other warning signs, consider reaching out to Premier Family Medical.
We offer urgent care services at convenient locations across Utah to help your child feel better quickly. For added convenience, you can use our “Save My Spot” feature to reserve your place in line before heading to urgent care. You can access care promptly and ensure your child receives professional treatment for flu or any other respiratory illness.
Taking preventive measures, such as scheduling the flu shot and encouraging good hygiene, can help protect your family from the spread of viral infections, keeping them healthier and more comfortable throughout flu season.
