However, the flu can be a problem for high-risk patients. "In this case, the virus is the same. However, the severity of the disease is higher for high-risk patients who are usually 65 years or older, young children, pregnant women, uncontrolled diabetics and patients with other pre-existing medical conditions."

A delayed visit to the paediatrician in cases of severe illness can lead to organ failure. "The faster you consult the doctor, the better the chances of recovery," explained Dr Rao. Furthermore, antibiotics are not the right treatment for the flu. "Influenza is a virus. Patients need to be prescribed antiviral medicines, and parents should not start an antibiotic course on their own."

Vaccinations

"Most flu shots are safe for children over six months old and must be taken before the start of the flu season. Any time between September to October is a good time to take the shot." The vaccine gives patients protection for a year and patients can't take it at the time of active infection. A registered doctor or nurse needs to administer the vaccine, and it costs anything between Dh40-Dh80 when purchased at a pharmacy, without insurance.

Danger: What to look out for?

To establish the severity of the case, parents can look out for the following symptoms:

1-If the child continues to get sicker and has persistent fever

2-Rapid or troubled breathing means the infection has spread to the lungs

3-If the child develops a blueish hue to his or her skin

4-The child is not ready to interact and if the child feels drowsy

5-Fever with rash

6-Fever with a severe cough

7-The child is refusing to take fluids

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