Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment of ARVI and Influenza in Adults and Children

Every year, we face the cold and flu season. Some people get through an illness easily, while for others, several days of fever, coughing, and weakness become a real challenge. It can be especially difficult for parents of young children. When a child feels hot, seems lethargic, or coughs all night, it is natural to worry and want to help as quickly as possible.

Although ARVI and influenza are very common illnesses, many myths about them persist — including the idea that antibiotics are always necessary, that a person has a “weak immune system,” or that any fever is dangerous. In reality, most viral infections resolve without serious consequences when the body receives appropriate support and the patient gets timely medical care when needed.

Let's take a closer look at what ARVI and influenza are, how they differ, which symptoms are typical, and what to do when you or your child becomes ill.

What Are ARVI and Influenza?

ARVI stands for acute respiratory viral infections. It is a group of illnesses caused by viruses that affect the respiratory tract.

These infections can be caused by:

• rhinoviruses;
• adenoviruses;
• parainfluenza viruses;
• respiratory syncytial virus (RSV);
• seasonal coronaviruses;
• human metapneumovirus and other viruses.

Influenza is also an acute respiratory viral infection, but it is considered separately because it tends to cause more severe illness and carries a higher risk of complications. Parents and adult patients should understand how to distinguish influenza from other respiratory viral infections so they can recognize it in time and help prevent the disease from taking a more serious course.

It is important to understand that a “cold” is not caused by one specific virus. It is a general term for various respiratory infections.

How Are Viral Infections Transmitted?

The main route of transmission is through respiratory droplets. Viruses spread when an infected person:

• coughs;
• sneezes;
• talks;
• has close contact with another person.

Infection can also occur through contaminated hands or surfaces if a person touches their eyes, nose, or mouth afterward.

Infections spread particularly quickly in:

• childcare settings;
• schools;
• offices;
• public transport;
• poorly ventilated spaces.

Even a very careful person cannot completely avoid exposure to all viruses. And that is normal.

Children are particularly likely to get sick during their first years of attending daycare or school because their immune systems are still encountering many infections for the first time.

Common Symptoms of ARVI

Symptoms may vary depending on the virus, but the most common include:

• runny or stuffy nose;
• sore or irritated throat;
• cough;
• fever;
• weakness;
• headache;
• muscle and body aches;
• reduced appetite.

Children may also experience:

• lethargy;
• sleepiness;
• irritability;
• refusal to eat;
• sometimes vomiting or diarrhea.

In most cases, symptoms gradually improve within 5–10 days. A cough may sometimes persist a little longer after ARVI — this does not necessarily mean that complications have developed.

How Is Influenza Different from the “Common Cold”?

Influenza usually begins suddenly. People can often identify the exact time they started feeling unwell. This is one of the main signs that can help distinguish influenza from other respiratory viral infections at the very beginning of the illness.

Typical symptoms of influenza include:

• a sudden rise in temperature to 38–40°C;
• severe weakness;
• intense headache;
• muscle and joint pain;
• chills;
• persistent dry cough;
• eye pain;
• sensitivity to light.

Unlike other respiratory viral infections, a runny nose and sore throat are often less pronounced during the early stages of influenza.

Influenza is more likely to cause the following complications:

• pneumonia;
• acute obstructive bronchitis and bronchiolitis (in children under 1 year of age);
• acute otitis media;
• acute sinusitis;
• myocarditis;
• exacerbations of chronic conditions;
• severe illness in infants and young children, older adults, and patients with underlying health conditions.

Who Is at Higher Risk of Complications?

People who need to be particularly careful during influenza and other respiratory viral infections include:

• parents of children under 5 years of age;
• people over 65;
• pregnant women;
• patients with bronchial asthma;
• people with diabetes and other metabolic disorders;
• patients with cardiovascular diseases;
• people with weakened immune systems.

If you belong to a high-risk group or are concerned about your child's condition, do not delay seeking medical advice.

Common Treatment Mistakes

Antibacterial Medicines (Antibiotics) for Viral Infections

ARVI and influenza are caused by viruses. Antibiotics do not work against viruses.

Uncontrolled use of antibiotics can lead to:

• antibiotic resistance;
• allergic reactions;
• diarrhea;
• disruption of the gut microbiome;
• other side effects.

Antibiotics are needed only when a doctor confirms bacterial complications.

“Immune-Boosting” Medicines

Many products are currently advertised as medicines that “boost” the immune system. However, most of them do not have sufficient scientific evidence to support their effectiveness.

The best ways to support the immune system are:

• getting enough sleep;
• eating a balanced diet;
• being physically active;
• getting vaccinated;
• reducing chronic stress.

When Might Antiviral Medicines Be Needed?

There is no specific antiviral treatment for most respiratory viral infections.

If influenza is confirmed or suspected, a doctor may recommend medicines containing oseltamivir. They are most effective when started within the first 48–72 hours after symptoms appear.

This is particularly important for:

• patients in high-risk groups;
• infants and young children;
• patients with severe influenza.

How ARVI Affects Children

Children get viral infections more often than adults. For preschool children, experiencing several episodes of ARVI a year can be within the normal range.

Due to the anatomical and physiological characteristics of a child's body, children are more likely to develop:

• otitis;
• laryngitis;
• bronchial obstruction;
• dehydration and other complications.

That is why it is important for young children to be monitored by a doctor while they are ill.

Prevention: What Really Works?

Influenza Vaccination

Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent severe influenza and its complications.

Vaccination is recommended for:

• children;
• adults;
• pregnant women;
• people with chronic conditions;
• healthcare professionals.

The vaccine does not protect against all respiratory viral infections, but it significantly reduces the risk of severe illness caused specifically by influenza.

Hand Hygiene

Regular handwashing is a simple habit that really helps reduce the risk of infection transmission.

Ventilating Indoor Spaces

Fresh air helps reduce the concentration of viruses indoors.

Staying Home When Ill

This is important not only for your own recovery but also for protecting other people.

In Summary

ARVI and influenza are part of life, and every family experiences them from time to time. In most cases, the body can fight off a viral infection on its own when it receives appropriate care, treatment, and rest.

The most important things to do when you are ill are to monitor symptoms carefully, avoid self-medication, and seek medical attention in a timely manner.

Patients need more than just prescriptions. They also need clear explanations, support, and reassurance that they are not alone with their worries. That is why Dobrobut is not only about treatment — it is also about care.

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