Diagnosis and treatment of children with severe influenza A from the 2009/2010 pandemic in Tianjin, China

Abstract

The clinical characteristics and treatments of severe influenza A (H1N1) in infected children were discussed and analysed. We found that such severe cases predominantly manifested respiratory symptoms; symptoms affecting the nervous system are also rare but dangerous. The clinical data of eight children with severe influenza A (H1N1) were analysed retrospectively. These children generally manifested fever and flu-like symptoms, short-term aggravation with dyspnoea. One case exhibited neurological symptoms. After continuous positive airway pressure and immunological regulation were administered, the clinical symptoms gradually improved. Patients with severe influenza A (H1N1) manifested respiratory tract symptoms. Those exhibiting neurological symptoms were seriously affected. Physical signs were regularly monitored and laboratory examination was conducted in order to determine the causes of severe illness. The treatments were adjusted accordingly.

Keywords: Children; influenza A (H1N1); severe illness.