The wait times in our emergency departments are longer than usual due to illnesses like RSV and the flu. View our estimated ED wait times and learn more about where to get care for your sick child.

Patient & Family Education Materials

Start over with a New Search

What's Influenza?

Article Translations: (Spanish)

Influenza

Say: in-floo-EN-zah

Feeling suddenly feverish, achy, and crummy all over? Sounds like influenza is in your body — the full name for the flu! Influenza is a type of germ called a virus that can make you sick. You'll feel better if you rest, drink plenty of liquids, and ask your parent to give you acetaminophen or ibuprofen to make you feel more comfortable.

Back To Top

Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.

© 1995-2025 KidsHealth ® All rights reserved. Images provided by iStock, Getty Images, Corbis, Veer, Science Photo Library, Science Source Images, Shutterstock, and Clipart.com