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Caring for Your Child During a Cold

Key Information

Weathering the Storm: A cold is a viral infection that the body must fight on its own. You cannot stop it, but you can help your child stay comfortable.
The Best Medicine: Rest gives your child energy to recover. Plenty of fluids help thin mucus and prevent dehydration.
Managing Symptoms: Children’s paracetamol or ibuprofen can help if your child is distressed (always check the label). Saline nasal drops can ease a blocked nose, especially in babies.
What to Avoid: Antibiotics do not work on viruses and will not help a cold.

Most colds pass on their own within one to two weeks, although a cough may last a little longer.

Your role is to keep your child comfortable while their immune system does the work.

Trust your instincts as a parent. Please 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 (for example, sucking in their ribs or tummy).
Hydration: Your child is not drinking fluids or producing wet nappies/urine.

If you are unsure whether your child needs medical review, it is always safer to ask.

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

Last reviewed: 01 January 2026
Next review due: 01 January 2029