Kids are prone to catching colds. One day, they’re perfectly fine, and the next, they’re sneezing, sniffling, and coughing. If your child is in school or daycare,they're sharing everything: crayons, food and germs. A runny nose can quickly turn into a full-blown cough or fever, and before you know it, you’re wondering whether it’s just a cold or something more serious. 

 

Why Are Kids Vulnerable to Colds?

If your little one is catching a cold it is mainly because their immunity is not strong yet to fight off the virus. Plus, babies explore the world with their hands, touching everything in sight and putting their fingers inside their tiny noses and mouths.
If your baby is in school or around other kids in daycare, the exposure to different viruses increases even more. Since over 200 types of cold viruses exist, a child’s developing immune system is constantly playing catch-up. Apart from this, colds/flu spread more easily in children during colder months when people spend more time indoors or during seasonal changes.

 

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Signs of Cold And Cough in A Child

Your little one may not be able to tell you how they feel, but their body gives plenty of clues. 

• Runny or stuffy nose: It might start clear and turn thicker over time.
• Sneezing: Their tiny sneezes may be cute, but they’re also a sign their body is fighting off germs.
• Coughing: A mild cough often accompanies a cold, though it can get worse at night.
• Fussiness: Feeling under the weather makes babies extra cranky and clingy.
• Reduced appetite: A stuffy nose can make feeding difficult, so they may eat less.
• Slight fever: A low-grade fever (below 100.4°F or 38°C) is common but should be monitored.

 

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Parent’s Guide To Navigating Cough And Cold

Most colds clear up on their own within 7 to 14 days. In the meantime, just keep an eye on your little one and watch for any changes. If their cold drags on for more than two weeks or new symptoms appear, it’s time to check in with a doctor.

If Your Baby Is Less Than 3 Months Old
If your baby is under three months old, call your paediatrician within the first few days of symptoms. Colds can spread to their lungs, sinuses, and ears, leading to more complications.

If Your Baby Is Over 3 Months Old
For older babies, keep an eye out for these warning signs and call the doctor if they:

• Have a fever higher than 100°F (37.8°C)
• Struggle to breathe or wheeze
• Rub their ears constantly (could signal an ear infection)
• Are unusually fussy or irritable
• Have a persistent cough
• Develop bloodshot eyes or eye discharge
• Have thick, greenish nasal mucus for several days
• Cry in an unusual or alarming way

Regardless of Age, Call a Doctor Immediately If:

• Your baby coughs up blood or blood-streaked mucus
• Has difficulty breathing or breathes rapidly
• Develops a bluish tint around their lips
• Has coughing fits that lead to vomiting
• Refuses to eat 

Trust your instincts. If something doesn’t seem right, don’t hesitate to reach out to your paediatrician.

 

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How to Keep Your Child Safe from Colds and Coughs

While you can’t shield your baby from every germ out there, you can take steps to reduce their chances of catching a cold. Here’s how:

1. Keep Your Hands Clean
To prevent germs from spreading, wash your hands often, especially before feeding, holding, or playing with your baby. Ask family members and visitors to do the same. If soap and water aren’t available, use a baby-safe hand sanitiser.

2. Limit Kids’ Exposure to Sick People
As kids are susceptible to cold and flu, it’s better to keep them at a safe distance. It’s especially important to be cautious around newborns whose immune systems are still developing.

3. Breastfeed, If Possible
Breast milk is packed with antibodies that help strengthen your baby’s immune system, making them more resistant to infections. Breastfeed your newborn and do not depend on formulated powder in the market. If breastfeeding isn’t an option, talk to your paediatrician about other ways to boost your baby’s immunity.

4. Clean Their Toys and Surfaces 
Babies love putting everything in their mouths and this attracts germs and may make them sick frequently. Regularly disinfect toys, pacifiers, and frequently touched surfaces like doorknobs and high chair trays.

5. Avoid Crowded Places
During cold and flu season, try to limit trips to crowded areas like malls, public transportation, or daycare centers where germs spread easily.

6. Dress Your Baby As Per Weather
Make sure your baby is dressed appropriately. Too much or too little clothing can make them uncomfortable and more prone to illness.

7. Use a Humidifier
Dry air can irritate your baby’s nose and throat, making them more susceptible to colds. A cool-mist humidifier can help keep their airways moist and comfortable.

8. Avoid Secondhand Smoke
Exposure to smoke can weaken your baby’s lungs and immune system, making them more prone to colds and respiratory infections. Keep their environment smoke-free.

 

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Colds and coughs are an inevitable part of your baby’s early years, but with the right care and precautions, you can help them recover faster and even prevent some illnesses altogether. Remember to keep their environment clean, wash hands frequently, and limit exposure to germs whenever possible. If your baby does catch a cold, don’t panic—most colds clear up on their own. Just keep an eye on their symptoms, and if anything seems unusual, call the doctor.