Children are at risk during every flu season. Children younger than 5 years old (especially those younger than 2) are at high risk of getting very sick from the flu and commonly need medical care because of the flu. Some complications from the flu in children can include:
- Pneumonia (an illness where the lungs get infected and inflamed)
- Dehydration (when a child’s body loses too much water and salts)
- Worsening of long-term medical problems like heart disease or asthma
- Issues with brain functioning
- Sinus problems and ear infections
- In rare cases, flu complications can be fatal