Trung lost consciousness, his limbs stiffened, and he had seizures for about 3 minutes. Tests at Tam Anh General Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, revealed an electrolyte imbalance, with blood sodium levels at 128 mmol/L, and hypocalcemia. A chest X-ray also showed bronchitis.

Master, Doctor, Level 1 Specialist Le Thi Ngoc from the Department of Pediatrics at Tam Anh General Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, diagnosed Trung with influenza A and non-specific seizures. She emphasized that seizures and delirium in children with influenza are warning signs of neurological complications, such as encephalitis or acute necrotizing encephalopathy. This condition can quickly progress from altered consciousness and seizures to coma. In severe cases, brain swelling and extensive brain damage may result in lasting neurological issues or death.

Following 5 days of treatment, Trung became alert, was fever-free, coughed less, and no longer experienced vomiting or seizures, leading to his discharge.

Doctor Ngoc examines Trung before his discharge. *Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital*

Influenza is an acute respiratory infection caused by viruses, which exist in many strains. Influenza A and B are two strains that commonly cause seasonal illness in humans. Influenza A includes prevalent subtypes like A/H1N1 and A/H3N2. These viruses evolve, allowing individuals to contract influenza multiple times.

Doctor Ngoc noted that influenza cases often increase in September and October, coinciding with children returning to school after summer break. The virus spreads primarily through respiratory droplets and secretions from coughing, sneezing, or talking, or via contaminated hands touching the eyes, nose, or mouth. Young children, due to frequent close contact, sharing objects, and less developed awareness of hygiene, facilitate easy virus transmission in schools and homes.

Children with influenza may experience fever, cough, runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, fatigue, and sometimes vomiting. Recovery typically occurs within 5-10 days. However, some cases may persist or lead to respiratory complications such as bronchitis or pneumonia.

Doctor Ngoc advises parents to seek medical attention if a child has a prolonged high fever, persistent cough, poor appetite, or if symptoms do not improve. Children 6 months and older should receive the influenza vaccine and annual booster shots according to age-appropriate schedules. Parents should also teach children to wash hands regularly, cover their nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, and avoid close contact with individuals showing respiratory symptoms.

Phuong Dang

* Patient's name has been changed