Early diagnosis of influenza in children is essential to prevent transmission to elderly people at risk of complications.
Dr Genaro Sepero, Paediatric Specialist at Juaneda Muro Hospital and Juaneda Inca Medical Centre, Shares Key Insights on Infections Affecting Children
During the current wave of flu and other viral respiratory infections — common at this time of year — it's crucial to pay special attention to children. Not only can they contract these illnesses, but they also often act as vectors of transmission to more vulnerable elderly relatives.
Dr Genaro Sepero highlights that "this 2024-25 flu season is seeing higher incidence rates than previous years," with children showing "more severe symptoms compared to similar viral infections."
He explains that "flu typically presents with a higher and longer-lasting fever, more intense body and neck pain, and deeper nasal congestion compared to other seasonal viruses." Early detection of symptoms is critical. "Parents should seek immediate medical advice at centres like Juaneda Inca to ensure precise observation and diagnosis," he adds.
Prompt diagnosis allows for appropriate treatment, improving children's quality of life and speeding up recovery. Early treatment also helps prevent the spread of flu since "children are one of the primary vectors for transmitting this infection to adults."
"The treatment for flu, including in children, is symptom management — it doesn't shorten the illness," says Dr Sepero. "The goal is to keep the child as comfortable as possible with pain relief, fever reducers, respiratory hygiene, elevated head positioning for better rest, and adequate hydration."
He warns that bacterial complications, such as acute otitis media and bacterial pneumonia, may arise and require antibiotic treatment under close medical supervision.
Parents are advised to watch for persistent or recurring symptoms: "If a cough or mucus doesn't improve, fever reappears or persists, or the child's condition worsens, further investigation and treatment may be necessary," Dr Sepero explains.
Bronchiolitis: The First Viral Bronchospasm in Infants
A significant respiratory infection to monitor is caused by the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), which triggers bronchiolitis in children aged 0 to 2. Dr Sepero describes it as "the first episode of bronchospasm caused by a virus, with RSV responsible in 80% of cases."
In 2024, the RSV vaccine was incorporated into Spain’s vaccination schedule. "Although newly included, the vaccine isn't new — it has already proven effective and safe," he notes, advising its administration to infants facing the winter season.
Bronchiolitis progresses in three phases: an initial 4-to-5-day stage resembling a typical cold with mucus and fever, followed by breathing difficulties where parents may observe rib retractions, nasal flaring, and increased breathing rates. This can lead to wheezing during the second phase, peaking around the third or fourth day, and a final recovery phase lasting up to a month, often accompanied by a lingering cough.
Treatment focuses on the child's comfort: maintaining hydration, respiratory hygiene, fractional feeding, elevated head positioning, and in some cases, using bronchodilators like salbutamol after a therapeutic trial to assess its effectiveness.
Gastrointestinal Viruses in Children
Finally, Dr Sepero notes the presence of stomach viruses such as norovirus, rotavirus, and adenovirus, which cause vomiting, diarrhoea, and discomfort. "The key is maintaining proper hydration, administering probiotics, and monitoring for dehydration due to fluid loss," he advises.
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