Caring for Your Child During a Cold

Key Information

• Weathering the Storm: A cold is a viral infection (a "storm") that the body needs to fight on its own. You cannot stop it, but you can provide "shelter" to help your child get through it comfortably.
• The Best Medicine: Rest is vital to give them energy for the fight. Hydration (plenty of fluids) helps thin mucus and acts like a comforting drink on a rainy day.
• Managing Symptoms:
  1. Fever: If your child is distressed, children's paracetamol or ibuprofen can help (always check the label).
  2. Blocked Nose: Saline nasal drops can help clear congestion, especially for babies struggling to feed.
• What to Avoid: Antibiotics do not work on viruses.

What Happens Next?

Most colds will pass on their own within a week or two, although a cough may linger longer. Your role is to keep your child comfortable while their immune system does the work.

When to Contact Us:

Trust your instincts as a parent. You should contact us for advice if:

• Parental Instinct: You are worried about your child for any reason.
• Severity: The symptoms seem particularly severe or are not improving as expected.
• Breathing: Your child is struggling to breathe (sucking in their ribs or tummy).
• Hydration: Your child is not drinking or producing wet nappies/urine.

Further Information

Last reviewed: 1 December 2025
Next review due: 1 December 2028