Management Algorithm for Influenza in Pediatric Patients

Diagnose all influenza-like (IFI) illnesses based on following symptoms. Do not use rapid flu test due to high rate of false negative results with H1N1.

*High Medical Risk are patients with the following medical conditions: asthma (requiring daily medication or history of hospitalization within last 3 months); cancer or other immune deficiencies; HIV; immunosuppressed; diabetes; metabolic diseases; cystic fibrosis; other chronic lung diseases; Cerebral palsy and other debilitating neurological illness; those in chronic care facilities/nursing homes; severe cardiac disease; severe renal disease (dialysis); hemoglobinopathies (sickle cell). Children under age two years are also considered high risk.

Chemoprophylaxis: CDC does not recommended chemoprophylaxis for community exposure. May be considered for exposed family members with severe underlying medical conditions.

Vaccination: The best way to prevent getting the flu. Encourage vaccination for seasonal flu and H1N1 flu especially for those with high risk medical conditions.

Infection Prevention:

• Individuals with cough or flu-like symptoms should wear a mask.
• Perform hand hygiene before and after patient care.
• The current MCG Policy is for care providers to wear gown, masks or face shields when caring for patients with flu-like illness.

Also See:

The AAP's website for physicians on pandemic influenza.