The good news: cold and flu are well understood, and children's symptoms can usually be managed at home. But there are always exceptions. Keep reading to get a better understanding of cold vs. flu, symptoms to watch for, and when to seek guidance from your child's pediatrician.
Cold vs. flu
When you've got a sick little one, the first thing you need to understand is what's going on. Cold and flu are both viral infections and often mistaken for one another, because symptoms overlap. The possibility of COVID-19 and other illnesses add additional confusion.
The flu is usually much more severe than a cold. Symptoms are more intense and debilitating. While a cold usually clears on its own, the flu can develop into more serious health problems, like pneumonia, bronchitis, and sinus and ear infections.
Cold
Onset is gradual.
Fever is rare, but usually mild when present.
Aches are minimal.
Fatigue is mild.
Nose is stuffy or runny.
Cough is mild to moderate and often produces mucus.
Sore throat is common.
Headache is rare.
Flu
Onset is abrupt.
Fever is common and often over 100°F.
Aches are common and can be significant.
Fatigue is common and can be extreme.
Nose may be stuffy or runny.
Cough is common, often dry and hacking.
Sore throat can occur, but is not common.
Headache is common.
Managing cold and flu at home
-
Wash hands well and frequently. You already know this, but it bear repeating. The best way to prevent the spread of germs is to wash hands with soap and warm water. Our Moisturizing Cream is a great way to combat dry hands after washing.
-
Wipe down high-touch surfaces. Clean areas like kitchen and bathroom countertops, faucets, handles, toilet flushers, and door knobs. Wipe down remote controls, tablets, cellphones, and laptops. Then tackle your child's most-touched surfaces, like the carseat, stroller, highchair tray, books, and toys.
-
Sterilize bottles, pump parts, and pacifiers. Anything that's been in your child's mouth (which might be... everything) could be harboring nasty germs. Wash and sterilize bottles, pump parts, pacifiers, nipples, baby teethers, and any small baby essentials. Replace toothbrushes, too!
-
Run a humidifier. Help ease congestion by placing a cool-mist humidifier next to your child's crib or bed, and keep the bedroom door shut to allow moisture to build up.
- Open windows and change air filters. A blast of fresh air can reduce airborne germs and help everyone in the family breathe a little easier. After the sickness passes, change indoor air filters to prevent germs from recirculating.
-
Use saline spray and suction for nasal congestion. Is there anything harder than trying to help your little one blow their nose? If they're struggling with mucus and boogers, try a saline nasal spray to loosen things up. Follow up with a suction bulb to help clear their airways.
When to call your child's pediatrician
Fever
-
Infant under 3 months old: A fever of 100.4°F or higher requires immediate medical attention. Don't attempt to treat it at home.
-
Children over 3 months old : Call your pediatrician if your child has a fever of 100.4°F or higher that's lasted more than 48 hours and is unresponsive to medication, like Tylenol (Acetaminophen) or Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil). Always use medication according to the guidelines on the packaging.
Labored breathing
-
Flaring nostrils
-
Tugging in the neck or chest
-
A blue or dusky tint to the lips or mouth
Dehydration
Counting your child's wet diapers is the easiest way to monitor hydration. Aim for at least 4 wet diapers within 24 hours. If your child isn’t drinking fluids or producing enough wet diapers, they may be dehydrated. Dry or flaky lips can also indicate dehydration.
Gastrointestinal issues
Diarrhea and vomiting are symptoms of viral gastroenteritis, known as the stomach flu. These symptoms lead to great discomfort, weakness, and dehydration. Seek medical attention if your child experiences:
-
Persistent diarrhea or vomiting for over 24 hours
-
Stomach pain lasting more than 2 hours or worsening over time