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COLD AND FLU

Cough & Cold in Children

It can be difficult to watch your child suffer from cold symptoms. Often times parents feel helpless and need some reassurance. Most children with cold or flu do not need to be seen in the emergency department. See the following link from CHEO to help you decide if your little one needs to go to the emergency department:

This is simply a guide to help parents make decisions. If you are concerned for your child's wellbeing, they should always be assessed by a doctor or nurse. 

What are Colds?

Colds are caused by viruses that we catch from people around us. There are many different viruses that can cause cold symptoms. The symptoms of a cold can include stuffy and runny nose, sore throat, cough, fatigue and sometimes a fever. Colds usually last anywhere from 1-2 weeks and can happen at any time of the year – though they are more common in late winter and early spring. There is no cure for colds. Antibiotics DO NOT improve the symptoms or duration of a cold. 

Cold Symptoms

  • Runny nose and sneezing 

  • Red eyes 

  • Sore throat and cough 

  • Headaches and body aches 

  • Fatigue 

  • Fever (sometimes) 

A cold is not the same thing as the flu (influenza). Flu symptoms are usually worse and come on faster. Children with the flu tend to feel a lot more fatigue and have higher fevers. Your child may also experience some shaking (chills), more body aches and headaches. See our section on FLU IN CHILDREN for more information.

Caring for Your Child at Home

If your child has an uncomplicated cold, they do not necessarily need to see a doctor. There are plenty of things you can do at home to help your child's symptoms. 

  • Have them drink plenty of fluids; water and Pedialyte are best 

  • Speak to your pharmacist about over-the-counter medicines to treat your child's symptoms. They can guide you on medications that are appropriate for your child's age and weight. 

  • Stay home! Your child is contagious – if you really need to leave the house, have your child wear a mask to protect others 

  • Have your child get plenty of rest 

  • Use saline nasal washes to help clear out mucus and keep your child's nasal passages open 

  • Use a vaporizer or humidifier to add moisture to your child's bedroom 

Preventing Colds

There are several things you can do to help prevent colds: 

  • Teach your child to wash their hands often 

  • Teach your child to keep their hands away from their face. The nose, eyes, and mouth are the most likely places for germs to enter your child's body. 

  • Make sure your child eats well, and gets plenty of sleep and exercise. This keeps their body strong so it can fight colds. 

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