Common Cold or The Flu - what does my baby have?

Colds and flues are common in babies and small children, especially for those babies who were not breastfed as their immune system is not as developed as those babies who were breastfed. However one of the hardest things as parents is watching their baby suffer with a cold or flu.

So how do we know if our baby is suffering from just the common cold or they have the “flu”?  The difference is that if your child has associated fevers of 38˚ or higher, is fatigued or has chills, followed by a runny nose and a dry cough they are more likely to be experiencing the flu.

If the congestion or cough happens before the fever it is more likely to be a cold.  Colds can also bring poor appetite, sore throat and swollen glands.  The flu can also cause diarrhoea and vomiting.

So what can we do to help our babies feel better? When a baby has a cold they still need to breath via their nose. When they have a cold their nose becomes blocked and therefore makes it difficult to breathe. Babies cannot clear (or blow) their noses by themselves yet so it may be necessary for you to help clear their nose. This can be done with saline drops/spray and a nasal decongestor.  This will allow for easier breathing, sleeping and feeding. Rest and regular fluids also play a vital role in recovery.

The flu can be similar in treatment. Sleep/rest and regular fluids are important as it may be necessary to visit your GP. Antibiotics may be required as well as analgesics to aid in the relief of pain and fever.

A probiotic can be taken from 3 months of age as well as a multivitamin from birth but it is important to realize that babies need to be allowed to develop an immune system on their own without supplements. So whilst it is very difficult to watch your baby suffering with a cold or flu it is important that we allow the body to build up antibodies to be able to fight any future infections or viruses that they may come in contact with.

Other products that may assist with relieving the symptoms of colds or flues are steam vaporizers, chest rubs and hand sanitizers.  Clean hands are important for not passing on the germs.  Of course you should talk to your pharmacist or health care nurse before purchasing some of these products.

If you have questions please don’t hesitate to ask advice at your local, friendly Calanna Pharmacy.

Written by Helen Bailey|Registered Nurse|Calanna Pharmacy Kirwan

š helenb@calannapharmacy.com.au | www.calannapharmacy.com.au