THE COMMON COLD
DESCRIPTION
A viral infection causing a blocked nose and sore throat, as well as a mild fever with sneezing and a watery nasal discharge.
The discharge frequently becomes yellow or green by the third day, and coughing is very common from the third day. The illness will last about 10 days.
CAUSE
Rhinovirus
TREATMENT
Antibiotics are not required.
Treat the symptoms of fever and snotty nose.
Use paracetamol or other pain relievers like ibuprofen and nasal saline flushes.
Nasal decongestants will help. Cough mixtures may help to loosen the mucus and make the cough easier. Ask your pharmacist about the right one for your child.
The incubation period is one to two days, and isolation is not necessary.
COMPLICATIONS
Occasionally, secondary bacterial infections can occur.
The fever is then usually high and lasts for longer than three days.
The chest symptoms may be bad with rapid breathing.
No long-term immunity develops.
SEE YOUR DOCTOR
Get medical advice if the fever is high and not responding to paracetamol or if your child has breathing difficulties.
THRUSH
DESCRIPTION
A fungal infection that causes a white cheesy-like rash in
