Can telemedicine treat Influenza (Flu)?

Audience: pediatric

Influenza, commonly called the flu, is a viral infection that can cause fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, and tiredness in children. Telemedicine can often help families by providing advice, symptom checks, and guidance on how to care for a child with the flu from home. Through video or phone visits, healthcare providers can assess symptoms, recommend treatments, and decide if further in-person care is needed. However, telemedicine cannot perform physical exams or tests, so if a child's symptoms are severe or worsening, an in-person visit is important. Parents should watch for danger signs like difficulty breathing, dehydration, or very high fever, which require urgent medical attention. Telemedicine is a useful tool to support care for many children with flu but is not a replacement for emergency or hands-on care when needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing — seek emergency care immediately.
• Child is not drinking fluids or shows signs of dehydration (dry mouth, no tears, fewer wet diapers).
• High fever lasting more than 3 days or not responding to fever medicine.

What telemedicine can do

• Symptom assessment and advice for mild to moderate flu symptoms.
• Guidance on home care and medication use.
• Determining if in-person care is necessary.
• Providing reassurance and answering questions.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Physical examination requiring hands-on assessment.
• Laboratory testing to confirm influenza.
• Emergency treatment for severe symptoms or complications.
• Hospitalization or advanced respiratory support.

What is Influenza (Flu)?

Influenza is a common viral infection that affects the nose, throat, and lungs. It spreads easily, especially among children. Symptoms usually include fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, muscle aches, and fatigue. Most children recover within a week, but some can develop complications like pneumonia.

How Telemedicine Can Help

Telemedicine lets you connect with a healthcare provider through video or phone. For the flu, it can help by:

This can save time and reduce exposure to others who might be sick.

Limitations of Telemedicine for Flu

Telemedicine cannot:

If your child’s symptoms are severe or worsening, an in-person visit or emergency care may be necessary.

When to Seek Immediate Care

Watch for these danger signs and get urgent medical help if your child has:

These signs mean your child needs prompt medical attention.

Preparing for a Telemedicine Visit

Before your telemedicine appointment:

This helps make the visit smooth and effective.

After the Telemedicine Visit

Follow the healthcare provider’s advice carefully:

If advised, schedule an in-person visit for further care.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Note the start date and details of your child's symptoms.
• List any current medications and allergies.
• Prepare questions or concerns to discuss with the provider.
• Ensure your device has a working camera and microphone.
• Find a quiet, well-lit space for the telemedicine visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider’s instructions for medication and care.
• Keep your child well hydrated and rested.
• Monitor symptoms daily and watch for any worsening signs.
• Contact your healthcare provider if new symptoms or red flags appear.
• Schedule an in-person visit if recommended by the provider.

FAQs

Can a doctor prescribe flu medicine through telemedicine?

Yes, if appropriate, a healthcare provider may prescribe antiviral medicines during a telemedicine visit. These medicines work best when started early in the illness.

How can I tell if my child needs to see a doctor in person?

If your child has trouble breathing, high fever that doesn’t improve, dehydration, or is unusually sleepy, you should seek in-person medical care promptly.

Is telemedicine safe for young children with the flu?

Telemedicine is generally safe for assessing mild to moderate flu symptoms in children. However, it cannot replace physical exams or emergency care when needed.

What can I do at home to help my child feel better?

Make sure your child rests, drinks plenty of fluids, and takes fever-reducing medicines as advised. Keep them comfortable and monitor symptoms closely.

Sources

1. Influenza (Flu) — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
2. Influenza — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
3. Flu Symptoms & Diagnosis — Mayo Clinic.
4. Telehealth: What You Need to Know — American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child’s symptoms are severe or worsening, please seek immediate medical attention.