Caring for Your Child During a Cold

Key Information:

Weathering the Storm: A cold is a viral infection (a “storm”) that the body needs to fight on its own. You cannot stop it, but you can provide “shelter” to help your child get through it comfortably.
The Best Medicine: Rest is vital to give them energy for the fight. Hydration (plenty of fluids) helps thin mucus and acts like a comforting drink on a rainy day.
Managing Symptoms:
- Fever: If your child is distressed, children’s paracetamol or ibuprofen can help (always check the label).
- Blocked Nose: Saline nasal drops can help clear congestion, especially for babies struggling to feed.
What to Avoid: Antibiotics do not work on viruses.

What Happens Next?

Most colds will pass on their own within a week or two, although a cough may linger longer. Your role is to keep your child comfortable while their immune system does the work.

When to Contact Us

Trust your instincts as a parent. You should contact us for advice if:

Parental Instinct: You are worried about your child for any reason.
Severity: The symptoms seem particularly severe or are not improving as expected.
Breathing: Your child is struggling to breathe (sucking in their ribs or tummy).
Hydration: Your child is not drinking or producing wet nappies/urine.

Discuss Symptoms

Further Information

Decoding Your Child’s Cough

For detailed advice on the common cold and knowing when to seek help, please visit the NHS website.

Learn more about the common cold

Last reviewed: 17 December 2025
Next review due: 17 December 2028