Influenza A-associated central nervous system dysfunction in children presenting as transient visual hallucination

Abstract

Five children, ages 3 to 6 years, developed visual hallucination and inappropriate behavior within 3 days of the onset of an influenza-like illness. Electroencephalographic examinations showed generalized slow waves in all five cases. Evidence of acute influenza A viral infection was documented in all five cases. Within 8 days all five children were discharged in stable condition. Influenza A-associated central nervous system dysfunction may be more common than previously recognized, and the prognosis is not necessarily poor.