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Do children get more colds in Egypt?
Young children average up to one cold per month, during the cooler season in any country. Symptoms can last an average of 14 days. So you need not be concerned if your child has cold symptoms off and on for nearly half of the cooler months. It is also not unusual for children to develop a second cold as the symptoms of the first cold are resolving; this can make it seem as if a single cold lasts for weeks or even months. There is no reason to worry unless more serious symptoms develop. |
The Common Cold is Common
The common cold is actually a group of symptoms caused by different viruses. While colds are not caused by cool climates or being exposed to cold air, they spread more easily if the body is stressed by being cold. The virus is transmitted when touching eyes, nose or mouth with contaminated hands, or breathing in viral particles blown into the air during breathing, coughing, or sneezing.
Cold Symptoms
In children, nasal congestion is the main symptom, often with clear, yellow, or green-colored nasal discharge. Fever (a temperature greater than 100.4ºF or 38º C) is also common during the first three days of the illness. Other symptoms may include: sore throat, cough, irritability, difficulty sleeping, decreased appetite, and swollen neck glands. Sometimes a cold can lead to ear infections, asthma, sinusitis or pneumonia.
Tips: Caring for a Cold
Mostly you don’t need to see a doctor for a cold or spend money on lots of medicines. You can care for the symptoms at home. The treatment of an infant or child with a cold is different than treatment recommended for adults.
- Saline nose drops or spray, along with bulb suction or nose blowing can temporarily improve symptoms of nasal congestion and runny nose.
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol) / paracetamol (Panadol) can help a child who is uncomfortable because of fever. There is no benefit if the child is comfortable and does not have a fever greater than 100.4º F (38º C). Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) can be given after six months of age. Aspirin should not be given to any child under age 18 years.
- Encourage children to drink an adequate amount of fluids, more if they have a fever. Children often have a reduced appetite during a cold, and may eat less than usual. Encourage healthy foods not just sugary snacks.
- The use of cough or cold medicines in infants and children under 6 years is not recommended because these medications are not proven to be effective and have the potential risk of dangerous side effects.
- Antibioticsare not effective in treating colds but might be necessary if the cold is complicated by a bacterial infection, like an ear infection, pneumonia, or sinusitis. Inappropriate use of antibiotics can lead to the development of antibiotic resistance, and can possibly lead to side effects, such as diarrhea or allergic reaction.
- Herbal and alternative treatments including zinc, vitamin C, and echinacea, have not been proven to be effective in treating colds.
When Should I See the Doctor?
f you notice any of the following its time to make an appointment with your doctor:
- Fever greater than 101ºF (38.4ºC) that lasts more than three days
- Nasal congestion does not improve or worsens over the course of 14 days
- The eyes become red or develop yellow discharge
- There are signs or symptoms of an ear infection (pain, ear pulling, fussiness)
If you notice any of the following go to the emergency room immediately:
- Refusing to drink anything for a prolonged period
- Behavior changes, including irritability or lethargy.
- Difficulty breathing, working hard to breathe, or breathing rapidly.
Preventing Colds & Flu
Cold & Flu viruses can live on skin and other surfaces for several hours so hand washing is an essential and effective way
to prevent infection. Model and teach your children about hand washing.
How to Wash Your Hands: Wet hands water and soap, and rub together for 15-30 seconds. Rinse thoroughly, and dry with a disposable towel. Alcohol-based hand rubs are a good alternative for disinfecting hands if water is not available. Hands should be washed before preparing food and eating, and after going to the bathroom, handling garbage or dirty laundry, touching animals or pets, and coughing, nose blowing or sneezing.
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Sneezing/coughing into your sleeve (at the inner elbow) will contain sprays of secretions without contaminating your hands. When using tissues to cover or wipe the nose discard promptly and wash hands immediately.
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Limit contact with those who are ill. While this is not always possible, touching the eyes, nose, or mouth after direct contact should be avoided. Keep young children with a cold home from nursery/school to prevent spreading it to others.
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Dress warmly in layers in the cooler months, including socks and hats to help prevent the body being stressed by cold temperatures.
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Maintain good nutrition with a variety of foods from all the food groups including nine servings of a variety of fruits and vegetables to boost the immune system