Flu, RSV & Colds in Children
When your child isn’t feeling well, we’re here to help.
Schedule a Pediatric Appointment
Coughing, congestion, fever and fatigue can be common during cold and flu season, but it is not always easy to know what is making your child sick.
Premier Community HealthCare’s pediatric Care Team can evaluate your child’s symptoms, recommend appropriate treatment and help you understand what to do next.
Is It a Cold, Flu or RSV?
Colds, influenza and RSV can cause similar symptoms. While symptoms can provide clues, it may be difficult to tell which illness your child has based on symptoms alone.
Common Cold
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sneezing
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Headache
- Mild body aches
- Low-grade fever
Flu
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Headache
- Muscle or body aches
- Tiredness or fatigue
Some children may also experience vomiting or diarrhea.
RSV
- Runny nose or congestion
- Cough
- Sneezing
- Fever
- Decreased appetite
- Wheezing
In very young infants, symptoms may include irritability, decreased activity or difficulty breathing.
When Should I Call My Child’s Pediatric Provider?
Contact your child’s health care provider if you are concerned about their symptoms, especially if your child:
- Is having difficulty breathing
- Is not drinking enough fluids
- Shows signs of dehydration
- Has symptoms that are getting worse
- Gets better and then develops a returning or worsening fever or cough
- Has an underlying health condition that is getting worse
Babies and young children can be at greater risk for complications from respiratory illnesses, so contact your child’s provider if you are unsure whether they need to be seen.
Know the Signs of an Emergency
Seek immediate medical care if your child experiences serious symptoms such as:
- Fast or difficult breathing
- Lips or face that appear blue
- Ribs pulling in with each breath
- Chest pain
- Signs of severe dehydration
- Difficulty waking or interacting normally
- Seizures
- Severe muscle pain
- A fever or cough that improves and then returns or becomes worse
For babies younger than 8 weeks, a fever of 100.4°F or higher requires prompt medical attention.
If your child is experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Help Protect Your Family During Respiratory Illness Season
Simple steps can help reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses:
- Wash hands regularly with soap and water.
- Cover coughs and sneezes.
- Avoid close contact with others when sick.
- Clean frequently touched surfaces.
- Improve indoor air circulation when possible.
Annual flu shots help protect children from influenza and serious complications. RSV protection is also available for eligible children under the age of two. Talk to your child’s health care provide about recommended shots and preventative care
Care That Fits Your Family’s Schedule
Many Premier locations offer extended hours, including evening appointments until 7 PM, to help families get pediatric care when they need it.
Pediatric Care at Premier
From routine checkups to sick visits, Premier’s pediatric Care Team is here to support your child at every stage of development.
If your child has flu, RSV, cold symptoms or another health concern, schedule an appointment with Premier. You can also meet our pediatric providers.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can you tell whether my child has flu, RSV or a cold from their symptoms?
- These illnesses can cause many of the same symptoms. A health care provider can evaluate your child and determine whether testing or other care may be appropriate.
- Does every child with cold or flu symptoms need an appointment?
- Not necessarily. Many respiratory illnesses are mild and improve with time. Contact your child’s Care Team if symptoms are severe, worsening, concerning or if you are unsure what level of care your child needs.
- Can my child get a flu shot at Premier?
- Yes, children can get a flu shot at Premier.
- Where can my child receive pediatric care?
- Premier offers pediatric services at multiple locations throughout Pasco and Hernando counties. Find a Pediatric Location
This information is intended for general educational purposes and should not replace medical advice from your child’s health care provider.