Influenza Symptoms: The Symptoms of Influenza
Are More Severe Than a Cold

As soon as a sore throat, nausea, and nasal congestion invade your body, it may be habit for you to say that you have the flu, or influenza virus. Many people associate all common cold symptoms with influenza, but influenza is a totally separate illness from a cold. Consequently, the symptoms of influenza are different and longer-lasting than cold symptoms. Even so, a cold can make you feel just as miserable as the flu. The question is, then, how do you know when you and your child are experiencing influenza symptoms?

Influenza symptoms are caused by a contagious respiratory virus, and it can be difficult to tell the difference between influenza, a cold, and even infectious mononucleosis solely based on symptoms. One reason for this is the possibility that influenza symptoms may be mild and common cold symptoms can be severe. A list of the most common influenza symptoms are as follows:

In addition to the above influenza symptoms, children may experience diarrhea and vomiting, but stomach problems are typically not associated with the flu virus. Influenza symptoms arrive suddenly and may last up to 2 weeks. People at high risk for complications from influenza symptoms include young children, senior citizens, and pregnant women. Children are prone to developing secondary illnesses from influenza symptoms such as a sinus infection or middle ear infection.

Influenza epidemics have been known to be fatal to millions of people, particularly the very young and old, so influenza symptoms should always be taken seriously. There is no cure for influenza symptoms, but an updated flu vaccination is available every year to head off flu season, which begins in late fall. Many flu vaccinations are approved for children who are 6 months of age and older.