Swine Flu Symptoms in Babies

Swine flu that raised its ugly head in 2009 and caused the deaths of thousands all over the world, is expected to come back this winter. Even though many lost their lives, in the heat of swine flu, there are quite a few people who are ignorant about swine flu symptoms in babies. Unfortunately, babies and toddlers, other than crying cannot communicate about the health problem they are facing. We, as parents need to understand and examine the baby to know what's wrong with the baby and if necessary take him to the doctor immediately.

Symptoms
Swine flu symptoms in babies are not easy to recognize, as they resemble to that of usual winter flu. However, keep in mind that swine flu is a severe infection that affects the respiratory system. That is why, symptoms rapidly aggravate within a short time. It is discussed below:

High Fever
This is one symptom that can help to distinguish swine flu with seasonal flu. The body temperature is abnormally high and with time, the temperature shoots up beyond 101 degree Fahrenheit. Also, the fever does not respond to medications, which is not the case with seasonal flu.

Difficulty in Breathing
Swine flu virus invades the respiratory system in a systematic manner and is far more severe than seasonal flu. Studies show that the virus rapidly increases in number, once it enters the respiratory system. So, breathing problems in babies and toddlers can worsen in just a couple of days, if immediate treatment is not taken.

Whole Body Pain
The affected baby may also suffer from body ache. This can be understood when the person holds the baby. The baby is not at all comfortable about someone holding him due to severe body ache. On holding the baby, it becomes restless and immediately starts crying.

Rash
Babies affected with swine flu may develop a skin rash. The immune system upon detecting the presence of swine flu virus in the body, may respond in the form of rash or hives.

Excessive Coughing
The baby may cough incessantly. Typically, swine flu cough is dry i.e nonproductive (cough does not produce mucus).

Runny Nose
Runny nose accompanied by frequent episodes of sneezing, can also indicate presence of swine flu virus. Unlike common cold that causes stuffy nose, here the baby suffers from runny nose, which means there is too much accumulation of nasal fluid.

Lethargy
The baby struck with swine flu appears extremely lethargic and tired. The aching limbs can considerably restrict its movements. Also, in this condition, when it sleeps, it can be very difficult to wake him up.

Points To Remember
Mere presence of rash or cold doesn't mean that the baby has contracted swine flu. It is usually the combination of symptoms that give an indication about the presence of swine flu. Usually, high fever (that does not subside for 3-4 days) accompanied by shortness of breath and coughing, points towards swine flu infection.

Treatment involves administering anti viral medicines orally or intravenously. To keep the baby safe from severe consequences of swine flu, it is important to take treatment on time. Keep in mind that swine flu is curable and so, there is no need to panic. Timely treatment is the key to restore normal health of the baby.