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Summer, a season for infections? Why do kids tend to get sick during summer? What is the summer flu?

  • Writer: Johanna
    Johanna
  • Jul 18
  • 3 min read

Updated: Jul 24


When we think of summer, we picture sunshine, ice cream, outdoor pools, and barefoot kids in the yard. It's especially surprising when fever, cough, or diarrhea suddenly occur during this time of year. Pediatric clinics typically see viral infections every summer. Why does this happen? And what exactly is the so-called summer flu all about?




summer flu
© Mylittlesprout

  1. What exactly is the summer flu?


Summer flu is not a medical term, but rather a colloquial expression for a viral infection that typically occurs during the warmer months.


Unlike the "real" flu (influenza), which is caused by influenza viruses, the "summer flu" is a viral infection typically caused by enteroviruses, occasionally also by adenoviruses or rhinoviruses.


These infections are usually mild and self-limiting, but depending on the virus, they can also be accompanied by gastrointestinal problems, skin rashes, or sore throats, sometimes presenting as a combination of a cold and a stomach virus.



  1. Why do infections happen in summer?


There are several reasons why viral infections occur in summer:


  • Enteroviruses multiply particularly well in warm temperatures and high humidity.

  • The viruses are transmitted fecally or orally, via droplets, or through contaminated surfaces, such as during play, changing diapers, or in outdoor pools.

  • During the summer months, children often have close contact with others, in daycare, on vacation, and on playgrounds.

  • Handwashing and hygiene are sometimes neglected while on the move, which leads to faster infection.



  1. Typical symptoms of summer flu in children


Depending on the virus and the child’s age, various symptoms may appear:


- Sudden or gradual fever

- Sore throat, difficulty swallowing

- Cough, runny nose

- Headaches, body aches, fatigue

- Abdominal pain, nausea

- Occasional diarrhea

- Less common: rash


Since enteroviruses can also infect the gastrointestinal tract, many summer infections resemble a combination of a cold and a gastrointestinal virus.



  1. How to best support your child


The best remedy for summer infections is often the simplest: rest, care, and plenty of fluids.


Pay attention to:

  • quiet surroundings

  • Drink plenty of fluids – water, tea, broth (especially if you have fever or diarrhea)

  • Light food – rusks, bananas, soup (although according to current recommendations, your child can eat whatever they want. There are no restrictions. You're happy when your child eats something)

  • Reduce fever in poor general condition – e.g., with paracetamol or ibuprofen

  • Wash your hands thoroughly, even when you're out and about, especially before eating and after using the bathroom.


Not recommended:

  • Antibiotics as they are ineffective against viral infections (only useful in cases of bacterial complications)

  • Forcefully reduce fever. Fever is a sensible immune response and doesn't automatically require treatment.



  1. When should you take your child to the doctor?


You should seek medical advice in the following cases:


  • High fever lasting more than 3 days - children under one year of age should consult a doctor on the same day if the fever is over 38.5°C


>>> see also: Fever in children:


  • Apathy, unusual tiredness

  • Shortness of breath, wheezing or barking

  • severe diarrhea or vomiting

  • Refusal to drink, insufficient fluid intake

  • Rash with blisters or bleeding

  • Cramps, paralysis, irritability or noticeable drowsiness



  1. Common summer infections in children (besides summer flu)


1. Hand, foot, and mouth disease

>>> see also: HFM in children:


2. Virus-related sore throats


3. Gastrointestinal infections


4. Pneumonia


5. Conjunctivitis

>>> see also: Conjunctivitis in children:




Conclusion: Keep calm and accompany lovingly


The summer flu and other summer infections may be unpleasant, but they're usually harmless. What your child needs most now is affection, patience, and a calm environment. Pay attention to warning signs, support your child's immune system with fluids, rest, and closeness, and give them time to heal.


Even in the summer, it is essential to wash your hands regularly, maintain good hygiene, and keep sick children at home to protect others.







Status: 07/2025

Sources:

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