It's not always easy to tell when a child has the flu. While many of the symptoms for influenza are similar to those of a simple cold, the flu is much more severe and last longer than a cold. Influenza usually begins with a headache, chills and a cough. These symptoms are followed by general body aches, a high fever, and sometimes vomiting, that may last for three to four days. Recovery ensues in a week.
Influenza can do more than lay children flat on their backs.
The virus is spread from child to child by sneezing, coughing and touching. Since the virus can last for a short time on toys and other objects, children frequently become infected by touching something contaminated with the virus and then touching their mouth, nose or eyes. When a child with the flu sneezes, they can send germs as far as 20 feet away. Since influenza viruses can remain airborne for up to two hours, they are easily inhaled by another child. That's why infection spreads quickly through schools and daycare centers.