Coughs, Colds & Flu
What are the causes?
You will probably find when your child starts mixing with other children they get lots of coughs, colds and sniffles. There are some good things about this though as it helps the body build up a natural immune system.
Flu can be more serious than a cold and leave your child feeling quite unwell. Flu tends to come on more suddenly and severely than a cold.
What are the signs & symptoms?
Your child may have aching limbs and feel uncomfortable, and be ill for a week or more. A fever, dry hacking cough, runny nose and headaches are other symptoms of flu.
How is it normally diagnosed
and treated?
Most viruses will run their course without doing any real harm because they will get better on their own. An annual nasal spray flu vaccine is available from the age of two as part of the NHS Childhood Vaccination Programme. Ask your GP or pharmacist for details.
Things you can do at home
to help
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Give your child lots to drink
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Try sugar-free paracetamol or ibuprofen (not aspirin)
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Keep them away from smoke and anyone who smokes
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Talk to your pharmacist but remember that coughing is the body’s way of keeping the lungs clear
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Make sure they get plenty of sleep/rest.
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Contact your GP if:
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Your baby has a persistent temperature of 38c or more
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They have a fever with a rash
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They are drowsy and less interactive
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Your child is finding it hard to breathe
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Persistent temperature does not respond to medicine
