“How long does the flu last for a child?”

Can last for several days up to a week. Really important to have them hydrated with water though

Typically, influenza lasts at least a week in a child, if not up to two weeks. Most viral illnesses lead to fever that lasts from three to maybe five days at most, and pediatricians recognize that influenza can lead to fevers which are a bit higher than others and also last a few days longer than those from other common respiratory viral illnesses. In addition, the cough associated with influenza can last for several weeks even after a child is feeling better otherwise.

Alix Casler, M.D.

Every individual has a different experience with illness, and what is frequently called "the flu" is not true "influenza" (*which can only be diagnosed by nasal swab testing), but rather is a non-specific seasonal virus. Each of these specifics change the typical severity and length of illness -- sometimes dramatically. While the "influenza" season is now officially over, it is still possible to be diagnosed with either Influenza A or Influenza B, the two types of influenza that were circulating this season. For most otherwise healthy children, the duration of influenza symptoms is 5-7 days, with days 3-4 usually the most severe. Tamiflu is a prescription medication that can be prescribed to shorten the duration and severity of the illness. Because the influenza virus mutates every season, individuals can contract influenza repeatedly. Influenza vaccine can help protect against infection, but is not 100% effective. Non-influenza illnesses that are termed "the flu" are caused by a wide variety of seasonal viruses and can last from 1 to several days. If your child has a temperature > 100.4 for more than 3 days, or other worsening symptoms, see your pediatrician.

Shelley C. Springer, MD, MBA, MSc, JD, FAAP

Generally, influenza may last 5 to 7 days in children and slowly resolve. The type of influenza and strain may be responsible for duration. COVID-19 can present with cold and flu-like symptoms. However, rarely is it associated with severe symptoms in children. If it is COVID-19, the symptoms may persist for weeks. Sometimes there can also be secondary bacterial infections. If the symptoms are persisting, you should contact your child’s physician.

Shawn K. Centers, DO, MH, FACOP