Why does my child have a cold?

Catching a cold is very common, especially during the winter months. While adults generally catch 2 to 5 colds each year, children can experience an average of 6-12 colds per year.

How do I know if my child has a cold?

One of the most common signs of a cold is a general feeling of being unwell. If your child has a cold, they may seem irritable and not their usual energetic selves. As the cold progresses your child may develop some of the following symptoms:

  • Runny or blocked nose
  • Sneezing
  • Coughing
  • Sore throat
  • Tiredness
  • Headaches
  • Sometimes a slight fever

Colds usually last a week or two and most of the time don’t need a doctor but if you are worried at all about your child’s symptoms, seek advice from your doctor.

How can I help my child recover from a cold?

We can all feel miserable when we have a cold– and your child is no different. You can help make them feel better by simply encouraging them to rest and drink plenty of fluids.

You may want to consider giving them some pain relief medicine. Nurofen for Children offers pain relief for children from 3 months and can also help reduce fever for up to 8 hours*.

*Autret-Leca et al 2007.