Banner Health reminds public to watch for pediatric respiratory issues

GLENDALE, Ariz. (Feb. 10, 2025) – Banner Health is reminding parents and caregivers that the respiratory illness season continues and to be mindful of the different symptoms to get the best treatment for children.

“With respiratory viruses circulating, it is important for parents to recognize early symptoms and take the appropriate steps to manage their child’s illness,” said Nikki Hardin, pediatric service line director at Banner Children’s at Thunderbird. “Many mild cases can be managed at home with rest and fluids, but some symptoms may require medical attention and if these symptoms persist, then it is time to go to the hospital.”

Banner Children’s at Thunderbird reports a 58% rise in pediatric respiratory illness in January compared to the same period last year. The uptick in cases highlights the importance of early symptom recognition and proper illness management. Banner Health emphasizes the importance for parents on how to recognize symptoms, manage their child’s illness and determine when to seek medical attention.

Recognizing Symptoms

While cold, flu, RSV, and COVID share similar symptoms, there are key differences:

• Common cold: Runny nose, sneezing, mild cough, and sore throat.
• Flu: Sudden fever, body aches, fatigue, and severe cough.
• RSV: Wheezing, difficulty breathing, and worsening cough, especially in infants.
• COVID: Fever, cough, loss of taste or smell, and sometimes gastrointestinal symptoms.

Parents should consider taking their child to an urgent care when:

• A persistent fever (higher than 100.4°F for more than three days)
• Mild dehydration (dry lips, less urine output)
• Worsening cough or congestion but no severe breathing difficulty

To find the nearest Banner Urgent Care near you and schedule an appointment, visit: urgentcare.bannerhealth.com.

Emergency care is necessary if a child experiences:

• Severe breathing difficulty (rapid breathing, flaring nostrils, retractions)
• Bluish lips or face
• High fever with confusion or unresponsiveness
• Severe dehydration (no urine output for 8+ hours, extreme fatigue)

About Banner Urgent Care 
Banner Urgent Care provides a close, convenient and affordable treatment option for patients with non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries such as cold and flu; ear, eye and throat infections; fevers; skin rashes; and sprains, strains and lacerations. Banner Urgent Care is open every day of the year and accepts most insurance plans. For more information, locations and hours of operation, please visit bannerhealth.com/urgentcare.