"Flu" is a word used so casually as a synonym for a runny nose or sore throat in adult life that we can stop regarding it as serious. Parents should be aware that influenza can be very serious for a baby or toddler. Most will make a full recovery without treatment, according to the NHS, but it can make them very ill, easily spread to other babies and young children, and even be fatal. Their immature immune systems put them at a higher risk of complications from flu, which include pneumonia and sepsis.

Which babies are at highest risk if they get the flu?

Flu is especially dangerous for newborn, premature, and very young babies, as well as babies with congenital heart problems or respiratory conditions.

Let's look at some of the common signs that your baby has flu:

Temperature of or above 38C Parents often worry about a baby's temperature, and with good reason. Any temperature of or above 38C in a baby merits a trip to the doctor, even if there are no other symptoms.
Breathlessness
Congested nose
Vomiting or diarrhoea
Persistent coughing
Difficulty feeding or refusing to feed or drink
General fussiness you can’t relate to normal hunger, tiredness, etc.

How can I prevent my baby from getting the flu?

A baby over six months old may be offered or recommended as a candidate for a flu jab, particularly if they have a condition that makes them more vulnerable to flu, such as asthma. It’s not safe for a baby under six months to be vaccinated against the flu.

To prevent your baby or anyone in your home from catching the flu, you should take the following precautions:.

Wash and dry your hands thoroughly. Ensure anyone you allow to touch your baby has washed their hands or applied an antibacterial gel.

Wipe and disinfect all surfaces (including door handles and phones and other devices) in your home and practice impeccable food and bathroom hygiene.

Wash towels, face cloths, and sheets often. Sterilise cleaning cloths and sponges.

Throwaway used tissues immediately after use. Avoid handkerchiefs and ask guests and relatives not to use these around or give these to your baby.

Care for any family members in their rooms until they are feeling better. Do not let them hold or lean over your baby.

How can I treat the flu at home?

It is important that a baby who is six months old and shows flu symptoms or an older baby or toddler who seems ill be checked out by a doctor before you try any of the following.

Encourage your child to drink fluids (seek advice from a doctor about babies under six months; they should not usually be given water).

Use baby paracetamol, baby ibuprofen, or another over-the-counter remedy if recommended for your child by your pharmacist or paediatrician. Ibuprofen can interact badly with other medicines, and it’s very important to share your baby’s medical history with anyone who might be telling you to give it to them.

Use a digital thermometer to monitor your baby’s temperature.

Don’t give a baby under one honey for a cough, sore throat, or any other reason.

Don’t give your baby aspirin.

Don’t sponge your baby with cold water to reduce a baby’s temperature; call the doctor instead.

When should I call the doctor about my baby’s flu?

Call the doctor (or the emergency services, if your doctor can’t be reached) if your baby has one of more of the following symptoms:

Has a temperature of or above 38C
Is struggling to breathe or persistently coughing
Is regularly vomiting
Has difficulty feeding or has taken less than half their usual feed for the last two to three feeds.
Has fewer wet nappies, nappies that seem drier than usual, or has a dry nappy for the last twelve hours.

Remember, your parental instincts are very important, and the flu is very serious in babies. You are never wrong to want your concerns about your baby’s flu (or a potential case) investigated.

For more information on how to identify and respond to illness in babies, take Unii’s Baby Health Journey with Dr. Su Laurent.

How can I tell if my baby has flu?

Flu can be very serious for babies. Unii flags how to recognise the symptoms.