If your child has a fever, persistent
cough, vomiting, diarrhea, or any contagious symptoms, it’s best to keep them
home. Allowing them time to rest not only helps them recover faster but also
prevents the spread of illness to others. A general rule: They should be
fever-free for at least 24 hours without medication before returning to school.

A runny nose is usually caused by a viral
infection and resolves on its own. However, if it persists for more than 10
days, or is accompanied by fever, difficulty breathing, or green or yellow
mucus, consult a healthcare provider. Testing for RSV, flu, or other conditions
may be necessary.

Strep throat symptoms typically include a
sore throat, fever, and swollen lymph nodes—but not a runny nose. If your child
has a sore throat along with a runny nose, it’s likely due to a viral infection
like the common cold or flu. A strep test is recommended if bacterial infection
is suspected.

Sleeping with wet hair doesn’t directly
cause illness, but staying cold for prolonged periods can lower the immune
system’s defenses. It’s best to dry their hair before bed to keep them warm and
comfortable.

Green mucus often indicates that your
baby’s body is fighting off an infection. While it isn’t necessarily a cause
for concern, look out for other symptoms such as fever, irritability, or
difficulty breathing. If these are present, seek medical advice promptly.

In older children, green mucus can also
be a sign of the immune system at work. However, if it’s accompanied by sinus
pain, persistent cough, or fever, it might indicate a bacterial infection
requiring medical attention.

High fever is rarely harmful on its own.
However, fevers above 104°F can cause febrile seizures in some children, which
are generally harmless but can be alarming. If the fever doesn’t reduce with
medication or persists for more than three days, consult your doctor.

Not necessarily. Persistent coughs are
often due to viral infections, which don’t respond to antibiotics. However, if
the cough lasts more than a week or is accompanied by wheezing, chest pain, or
shortness of breath, seek medical attention to rule out bacterial pneumonia or
other conditions.

Walking pneumonia usually presents with
milder symptoms, such as a lingering cough, low-grade fever, and mild chest
discomfort. It often lasts longer than a typical viral infection. Testing and
X-rays can help confirm the diagnosis if you suspect pneumonia.

Yes, seasonal allergies can lead to runny
noses, sneezing, and mild coughs even during winter. Indoor allergens like dust
mites and mold are common culprits. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult your
doctor to rule out other conditions like RSV or the flu.

Monitor their behavior along with the
fever. If they are lethargic, unusually fussy, or the fever exceeds 104°F, seek
immediate medical help. Persistent fever lasting more than three days may
require further evaluation for bacterial infections like strep throat or
pneumonia.

In most cases, children recover fully
from RSV within 1-2 weeks. However, severe cases, especially in infants, can
lead to complications such as asthma or recurrent wheezing later in life.
Consult a doctor if your child shows signs of labored breathing or dehydration.

Yes, drinking milk is generally safe,
even when they have a cold or flu. Despite myths, milk does not increase mucus
production. However, if your child finds it uncomfortable, warm fluids like
soup or herbal teas may be a better alternative.

A balanced diet with plenty of fruits and
vegetables rich in vitamin C, zinc, and antioxidants can strengthen your
child’s immune system. Foods like citrus fruits, leafy greens, and yogurt are
great options. Staying hydrated with water or electrolyte drinks is equally
important.

Encourage frequent handwashing, ensure
they are vaccinated for flu, and maintain good indoor air quality with
purifiers. Adequate sleep, hydration, and a nutrient-rich diet can also help
bolster their defenses.

Nighttime coughing often worsens due to
postnasal drip when lying down or dry indoor air. Using a humidifier and
elevating their head during sleep can help.

Cold symptoms are usually accompanied by
a fever or body aches, while allergies tend to cause sneezing, itchy eyes, and
a clear runny nose without a fever.

Yes, cold air can trigger asthma
symptoms, leading to coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. Ensure your
child wears a scarf or mask over their nose and mouth when outside.

Yes, young children can catch colds
frequently as their immune systems are still developing. Most recover within a
week, but consult a doctor if symptoms persist or worsen.

Both can help ease congestion, but a
cool-mist humidifier is safer for children and effective for winter dryness.
Clean it regularly to prevent mold growth.

Yes, dry skin in winter can sometimes
indicate mild dehydration. Ensure your child drinks plenty of fluids and uses a
child-friendly moisturizer.

Dress your child in layers of breathable
fabrics, and use hypoallergenic moisturizers. Avoid long, hot baths, which can
strip the skin of natural oils.

Yes, dry indoor air from heating systems
can cause nosebleeds, dry throat, and irritated skin. Use a humidifier to
maintain indoor moisture levels.

Yes, ear infections often follow colds or
respiratory infections, which are more common in winter. Watch for signs like
ear pain, fussiness, or difficulty hearing.

Not exactly. Colds are caused by viruses,
not cold weather. However, keeping your child warm can help them stay
comfortable and prevent hypothermia.

Strep throat often presents with severe
throat pain, fever, and swollen glands but rarely with a runny nose. A rapid
strep test can confirm the diagnosis.

Use a saline spray and a bulb syringe to
clear nasal passages gently. Keeping the air humid can also help alleviate
congestion.

Yes, dust mites, mold, and pet dander can
trigger allergy-like symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, and itchy eyes,
especially during winter when indoor time increases.

Look for dry lips, fewer wet diapers,
dark urine, and lethargy. Encourage fluids like water, broths, and electrolyte
drinks to keep them hydrated.

Yes, as long as they’re dressed warmly in
layers and monitored for signs of frostbite or hypothermia, such as pale skin
or shivering.

Yes, as long as they’re dressed warmly in
layers and monitored for signs of frostbite or hypothermia, such as pale skin
or shivering.

Some studies suggest that probiotics may boost
immunity, but they’re not a substitute for a healthy diet and flu vaccination.
Consult your doctor before adding supplements.

Yes, while RSV immunity develops after
infection, it’s short-lived, and reinfections can occur, especially in young
children.

If your child has difficulty breathing,
rapid breathing, or persistent wheezing, seek medical attention immediately.
Wheezing could indicate asthma, RSV, or pneumonia.

Yes, but they should be part of a
balanced diet. Excessive use can cause side effects, so consult your
pediatrician for age-appropriate dosages.