Childhood respiratory illnesses: What to do during cold and influenza season

Every winter brings colds, influenza and other respiratory ailments that can spread quickly, particularly among children.

Laura Santos, MD, associate division director of pediatric critical care at Hassenfeld Children’s Hospital at NYU Langone, offers some reassurance for parents, including how to care for children with respiratory illnesses, signs that may indicate more serious illness and tips for helping your child recover at home.

It’s not too late to vaccinate: Influenza (flu) activity can occur as late as May, and most often peaks in February, so getting your child vaccinated at any time during the season can keep them from becoming ill and missing school.

Generally, it’s safe for children to get most vaccines even if they have a fever or a mild illness. Getting vaccinated may also protect those around you who aren’t eligible for the flu vaccine, like babies younger than 6 months and people with certain health conditions.

Respiratory illnesses can look alike because the symptoms are similar: runny nose, sneezing, cough and fever. It can be difficult to differentiate between them based on symptoms alone, but there are a few key differences. 

In general, flu symptoms are more intense, begin more suddenly and tend to include chills and muscle or body aches. If you suspect that your child has the flu, check in with your pediatrician. There are special tests that can detect flu viruses, and treatment options are available that work best when started within 48 hours of the first symptoms.