Reye syndrome risk is increased when aspirin is given to children during which illness?

• A. A bacterial infection such as strep throat
• B. A non-viral illness such as allergies
• C. A viral illness (influenza or varicella)
• D. Dehydration from diarrhea

Answer: (C)

Reye syndrome risk rises when aspirin is given to children during a viral illness, especially influenza or varicella. In these viral contexts, aspirin has been linked to a rare but serious failure of the liver and brain swelling, so medical guidance has long discouraged aspirin use in anyone under about 18 years old who has a viral infection. This association is not seen with bacterial illnesses or non-viral conditions like allergies, nor is it tied to dehydration from diarrhea. For fever or pain in children, safer alternatives such as acetaminophen (and ibuprofen when appropriate) are recommended instead of aspirin during viral illnesses.