Postholiday Flu Surge Hits Children Hard as Pediatric Cases Rise Nationwide

As the postholiday period unfolds, infection prevention and control professionals are once again navigating a predictable but high-impact surge in influenza activity. Increased travel, family gatherings, and school reentry have driven a rapid rise in pediatric and family influenza (flu) cases, with CDC surveillance indicating elevated influenza activity and increased outpatient visits nationwide.

For infection prevention and control (IPC) teams, this moment underscores the importance of early consideration of pediatric transmission dynamics, clear guidance on recognizing symptoms, and consistent messaging across schools, clinics, and communities.

To learn more, Infection Control Today^® (ICT^®) asked Amber Kool, DNP, MBA, MSN, RN, the associate vice president of assessment and development at Arizona College of Nursing, for input for infection prevention and control personnel.

ICT: What trends are you currently seeing in pediatric and family flu cases following holiday travel, and how do these patterns compare to previous postholiday seasons?

Amber Kool, DNP, MBA, MSN, RN: “Coming off the holiday season, we often see an uptick of flu cases due to travel, family gatherings, and holiday parties. This season, we are witnessing a rapid increase in pediatric cases, and according to the CDC, doctor visits for flu/cold-like symptoms are high, with seasonal flu activity elevated across the country. We at Arizona College of Nursing are monitoring these trends to ensure our student nurses both stay healthy and are ready to help support their local communities.”

ICT: From a clinical and infection prevention standpoint, what early flu symptoms should parents and school staff be particularly vigilant about as children return to classrooms?

AK: “Unlike a cold that lingers and builds, flu symptoms tend to hit all at once, causing mild to severe illness. I like to tell parents and teachers to watch for any abrupt change, including sudden high fever and chills, fatigue, cough, sore throat, or body aches. If a child goes from playing to feeling unwell on the couch in the span of an hour, that is a red flag, and it is important to act fast.”

ICT: When managing flu cases at home, what guidance should nurses and pediatricians be giving families to reduce transmission within households and prevent spread back into schools and childcare settings?

AK: “At Arizona College of Nursing, we teach our future nurses about the importance of containment. In a busy household, it is key to designate one ‘sick room’ where those feeling under the weather can stay and get better. The ‘healthy’ members of the household and the caregivers should be sure to minimize exposure.”

“The 24-hour rule is vital. Children should stay home until they have been fever-free for a full 24 hours without the help of acetaminophen and ibuprofen. Of course, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly, cough into your elbow, if need be, and avoid close contact when possible. If your child must leave the house before the 24 hours are up, he or she should wear a mask to reduce the likelihood of exposure for others.”

“According to the CDC, children six months and older are recommended to receive the influenza vaccine every season, especially those who are at risk for complications from the flu. Talk to your child’s doctor for specific advice and careful review.”

ICT: At what point should parents seek medical evaluation for a child with flu symptoms, and what red flags indicate a higher risk for complications?

AK: “The symptoms for the flu typically can be managed with lots of fluids and rest, but there are definitely signs to watch out for that indicate it may be best to see a professional. If your child is breathing faster than normal, has blueish lips, or are so irritable they cannot be consoled, seek professional care immediately.”

ICT: What role can infection preventionists play in supporting schools, pediatric practices, and communities during this surge, particularly around vaccination, respiratory etiquette, and clear public health messaging?

AK: "Infection preventionists are vital during cold/flu season as they are the ones who can best translate complex data into simple actions to help combat infections. At Arizona College of Nursing, we encourage our students to be informative members of the health care community, ensuring public health messaging is calm, clear, and consistent.”