01/21/2026
Flu season comes with a lot of misinformation, and it can make parents feel unsure about what to do next. Understanding what’s actually happening in your child’s body helps families respond with confidence and choose the right level of care.
Some important reminders we share often in clinic:
✔️ The flu is more than a cold and can cause high fevers, body aches, breathing symptoms, and dehydration
✔️ Children can spread the flu before they look sick, which is why it moves so quickly through schools and households
✔️ Antibiotics do not treat the flu or other viral illnesses and are only used when a bacterial infection is present
✔️ Not every child with the flu needs the emergency room. Many can be safely evaluated and treated in pediatric urgent care
What matters most is how your child looks and acts. High fever alone isn’t always the deciding factor. Breathing effort, hydration, energy level, and worsening symptoms help guide when care is needed.
If your child has trouble breathing, signs of dehydration, extreme fatigue, persistent vomiting, or symptoms that are getting worse instead of better, it’s important to have them evaluated.
When you’re unsure, it’s always okay to be seen 💙 Walk-ins welcome at Night Watch Urgent Care.
Open evenings and weekends for families.
📍Manassas
11700 Sudley Manor Dr, Manassas, VA 20109
📞 (703) 589-9695
📍Wi******er
2118 Pleasant Valley Rd, Wi******er, VA 22601
📞 (540) 545-9999
📍 Aldie
42010 Village Center Plaza, Ste 100, Aldie, VA 20105
📞 (703) 775-4999
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