Soothing babies and toddlers with colds or flu – tips and advice

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Does anything tug on our heartstrings more than when we see our babies bogged down with colds or flu? The poor things can’t understand why they feel so unwell, and all we want to do is comfort them.

However, these pesky illnesses are so easy for kids to pick up, particularly during cold and flu season, which kicks off from around October to May.

Here are the tips and advice you need to know about nursing your little one through it:

What’s the difference between a cold and flu?

The symptoms of colds and flu are similar, so it’s sometimes hard to tell the difference. However, they are not the same. In most cases, flu is more severe, and usually comes with a high temperature or fever and includes symptoms like headaches and muscle soreness.

Will antibiotics make a difference?

Antibiotics are prescribed for bacterial illnesses. As colds and flu are viral illnesses, antibiotics will have no effect whatsoever.

Can I give my child pain relief?

You might be unsure whether you can give your child a pain reliever – but there are pain and fever relief options on the market for babies. Calpol® Infant Suspension is a gentle pain and fever relief and is suitable for most babies as young as two months. This can help lower your little one’s temperature and soothe their symptoms. Ensure you read the ingredients and instructions carefully before giving them to your baby, and if you’re unsure, contact your GP for advice.

What can I do to soothe them while they’re unwell?

It's important your baby or toddler doesn't become dehydrated, so ensure they drink liquids regularly. Keep a sippy-cup or bottle topped up with cool water – and for toddlers, a handy tip is to give them fruit ice lollies. Not only will they be delighted with the treat, but the ice will also help cool them down and keep them hydrated. 

Try to feed your baby as normal, and if your toddler has no appetite, a good idea is to give them light, liquid meals like tasty smoothies, soups or even some ice-cream.

With colds and flu comes temperature, so keep your child dressed in light, cotton clothes. Layer light bedding so you can remove or add blankets easily, depending on how warm your child is feeling.

Colds and flu really take it out of kids, so of course, they need as much rest as possible to recuperate. To help them get some much-needed shut-eye, ensure their room is cool, quiet and restful.

With colds and flu comes the sniffles and a stuffy nose, particularly at night time. Put your toddler’s pillow at a slight incline, or place a folded towel under the mattress of your baby’s crib, helping drain that stuffy head.

When should I seek medical advice?

Particularly with little ones, there’s the risk that flu can develop into a more serious condition, like a sinus infection or pneumonia. Visit your doctor if your child is steadily getting worse, or if they have a high temperature.

What exactly is considered a high temperature?

A temperature of 37.5°C and above is considered high, you should always seek medical help if you are concerned.

Brought to you by
CALPOL® Infant Suspension for infants 2 months + (weighing over 4kg & not premature). Contains paracetamol. For pain and fever. CALPOL® Saline Nasal Spray (from birth) for congestion relief. Non medicine. Always read the label.
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