Children may be infected with viruses many times in a given year, and children who attend day care or school may be exposed to even more viruses that cause illness. Fortunately, most of the symptoms of viral infections in children resolve within one-to-two weeks. Often these symptoms can be treated at home and with rest, although for symptoms that do not go away or get worse, treatment by a doctor may be necessary. Consider this information from the Mayo Clinic and the National Library of Medicine about virus symptoms in children.
Aches
Children may have various aches and pains when infected with a virus. A headache is an early symptom of a viral infection in children, and the pain may spread into the face and neck. Viral infections such as influenza may also cause muscle aches, abdominal aches and cramps in children.
Digestive Problems
Children with viral infections may have a variety of digestive problems during the course of the illness. At the beginning of the illness, lack of appetite and nausea may develop in children. They may also develop vomiting, stomach cramps and diarrhea when ill with viruses such as norovirus, rotavirus and influenza.
Fever
Children with a virus often develop a fever that may last several hours to several days. Pediatricians may request that parents check the temperature of babies rectally or under the armpit, and check those of older children under the armpit or orally. Children with fevers may feel better with home care such as a lukewarm bath and hydration, although those with high fevers may need urgent medical treatment to prevent complications.
Malaise
Children infected with a virus may experience general feelings of illness referred to as malaise. To parents, children with a virus may not act as they normally do and may be uninterested in play and other favorite activities. Children who have viral infections may be quiet, move slowly and act listless or restless.
Respiratory Problems
Viruses that infect the lungs of children may cause respiratory problems including difficulty breathing. Children with respiratory viruses may have shortness of breath and pain when taking a deep breath or coughing. Children may also produce excessive mucus as a result of respiratory viruses, which can lead to sneezing, congestion, runny or stuffy nose and a sore throat.
Tiredness
Children with viral infections may feel tired and physically fatigued throughout the day. They may want to sleep later in the morning or take naps, even those who had already stopped taking regular naps. However, some children may have difficulty sleeping while sick with a virus due to other symptoms such as congestion or body aches that make it difficult to get comfortable and relax.
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