What happens after a telemedicine visit for Influenza (Flu)

Audience: pediatric

After a telemedicine visit for influenza (flu), parents and caregivers will usually receive advice on how to care for the child at home. The healthcare provider may suggest rest, fluids, and medicines to reduce fever and relieve symptoms. Sometimes antiviral medicines are recommended if started early. Follow-up instructions often include watching for worsening symptoms or complications. It is important to keep the child isolated to prevent spreading the flu to others. The telemedicine provider can answer questions and help decide if in-person care is needed. This guide helps families understand what to expect after the visit and how to support a child's recovery safely.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing — seek emergency care immediately.
• Persistent high fever above 39°C (102°F) that does not respond to fever reducers — contact your healthcare provider.
• Signs of dehydration such as very dry mouth, no tears when crying, or very few wet diapers — seek medical advice promptly.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of flu symptoms in children.
• Providing advice on symptom management and home care.
• Prescribing antiviral medications when appropriate.
• Guidance on when to seek in-person care.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Emergency care for severe breathing problems or dehydration.
• Physical examinations requiring hands-on assessment.
• Hospitalization or advanced treatments for complications.
• Administering vaccines or in-person diagnostic tests.

What to Expect Right After Your Telemedicine Visit

Your healthcare provider will review your child's symptoms and may suggest treatments to help them feel better. This often includes rest, drinking plenty of fluids, and using fever reducers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. If prescribed, antiviral medicines should be started within 48 hours of symptoms beginning for best effect. The provider will also explain how to prevent spreading the flu to others at home and school.

Monitoring Your Child's Symptoms

After the visit, watch your child closely. Common flu symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, and fatigue. Most children improve within a week. However, if symptoms worsen or new signs develop, you may need to seek further care. Keep track of fever, breathing difficulties, hydration, and behavior changes.

When to Seek In-Person Medical Care

If your child has trouble breathing, persistent high fever, is very sleepy or hard to wake, shows signs of dehydration (such as not urinating for several hours), or has a worsening cough, seek medical care immediately. These may be signs of complications like pneumonia or severe flu.

Preventing Spread of Influenza at Home

Keep your child away from others as much as possible until at least 24 hours after fever ends without using fever reducers. Encourage frequent handwashing, cover coughs and sneezes, and clean commonly touched surfaces. These steps help protect family members and friends.

Follow-Up and Additional Support

Your telemedicine provider may schedule a follow-up call or visit to check on your child's progress. If symptoms do not improve or you have concerns, do not hesitate to reach out. Support is available to help you manage your child's illness safely at home.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Have your child's symptom history ready, including when symptoms started.
• List all current medications and any allergies your child has.
• Prepare to describe your child's temperature and other symptoms.
• Ensure a quiet, well-lit place for the telemedicine visit.
• Have a thermometer and any relevant medical devices nearby.
• Write down any questions you want to ask the healthcare provider.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's advice on medications and home care.
• Monitor your child's symptoms closely and keep a symptom diary if helpful.
• Keep your child isolated to prevent spreading the flu.
• Maintain good hygiene practices at home.
• Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms worsen or new concerns arise.
• Attend any scheduled follow-up appointments or calls.

FAQs

How soon after symptoms start should antiviral medicine be given?

Antiviral medicines are most effective when started within 48 hours of symptom onset. They can help reduce the duration and severity of the flu.

Can my child go back to school or daycare after having the flu?

Your child should stay home until at least 24 hours after their fever has gone without using fever-reducing medicines to reduce the risk of spreading the flu to others.

What can I do to help my child feel more comfortable?

Encourage rest and fluids, use fever reducers as advised, and keep the environment calm and comfortable. Humidifiers may help ease cough and sore throat.

When should I call the doctor again after the telemedicine visit?

Call your healthcare provider if your child's symptoms worsen, if they develop difficulty breathing, dehydration, persistent high fever, or if you have any new concerns.

Is it safe to treat flu symptoms in children at home?

Many children with flu can be safely cared for at home with proper monitoring and treatment. However, close attention to red flags and timely medical care is important.

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. Flu (Influenza) in Children — 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 has severe symptoms or you have urgent concerns, seek immediate medical attention.