Colds – Baby

Colds are contagious infections of the upper airways most
often caused by a virus. Colds are very common in young children,
with most suffering around 10 colds in their first two years of
life. 

DESCRIPTION

There are over 100 different types of virus responsible for
the common Cold. Colds are spread through the air, or by coming
into contact with the nose, mouth or throat secretions of an
infected person. In babies most Colds occur when the baby is
touched by someone who has not washed their hands. Exposure to cold
temperatures does not in itself cause the common Cold. The common
Cold is annoying to a baby but usually clears up without any
serious complications. Breastfeeding usually offers protection
against the Cold in the first couple of months.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

• Mild, persistent cough. 
• Loss of appetite, refusing breast or bottle feeds. 
• Runny nose and sneezing.
• Irritability. 
• Fever is NOT usually associated with the common Cold. Presence
  of a fever is more likely to be related to influenza or another
  bacterial infection. Contact your Doctor if your baby develops a
  fever.

TREATMENT OPTIONS

• If your baby is less than 3 months old, or the Cold persists
  for longer than 1 week, call your Doctor. 
• Antibiotics are not used as these types of drugs are not
  effective against viral infections.
• If a fever develops, call your Doctor.
• If you are breastfeeding, continue as normal.
• Disinfect all toys and household surfaces daily. 
• Anyone coming into contact with the baby should wash their
  hands thoroughly with warm water and soap.
• People with Colds should be kept away from the baby until their
  symptoms have gone.
• Do not give any medications to a baby unless your Doctor or
  Pharmacist has recommended them.
• Saline nose drops may make it easier for your baby to breathe,
  especially during feeding.
• A steam humidifier can keep the airways moist and reduce
  secretions.

PHARMACIST’S ADVICE

Ask your Pharmacist for advice.

1. Small frequent feeds might be better.
2. Give paracetamol or ibuprofen in a mixture form to help relieve
   the symptoms. Remember, do not give aspirin to children under 16
   years because of possible side effects. 
3. A chestrub suitable for a baby’s delicate skin may help with
   breathing difficulties.
4. A vaporiser in the same room as the baby may help ease some
   Cold symptoms.
5. Inform other people in the household to always wash the hands
   and use a disinfectant on areas where the virus might be living
   e.g., a telephone, to help stop the spread of a Cold. Remember that
   prevention is the key.
6. If dietary intake is inadequate nutritional supplements may
   assist. Vitamin C, children’s garlic and child echinacea are
   available in most Pharmacies.

Aspirin should not be given to children under 16 years of age
unless specified by a Doctor.