As we move through winter, we’re seeing our usual RSV, Influenza (Flu), and common viral colds. While these infections usually run their course at home, the right care—especially broken down by age—can make a big difference in helping your child feel better and ensuring symptoms don’t escalate.

Below is a simple guide for recognizing symptoms and supporting your child through these seasonal viruses.

Infants: 0–12 Months

Infants, especially those under 6 months, are the most vulnerable to respiratory viruses. Their symptoms can progress quickly, so close monitoring is essential.

What to Watch For

• Fast or difficult breathing
• Flaring nostrils, grunting, or pulling in at ribs
• Poor feeding
• Fewer wet diapers
• Fever (100.4°F / 38°C or higher in infants under 3 months requires immediate evaluation)

At-Home Treatment

• Nasal saline and suctioning before feeds and sleep
• Cool-mist humidifier in the room
• Frequent small feeds (breastmilk or formula) to avoid dehydration
• Holding upright or offering contact naps to ease breathing

No honey, no over-the-counter cough/cold medications, and acetaminophen for infants over 2 months only as advised by your pediatrician.

When to Seek Immediate Care

• Any difficulty breathing
• Poor feeding for 8+ hours
• Blue tint around lips
• Fever in infants under 3 months
• Signs of dehydration (less than 3 wet diapers in 24 hours, no tears when crying, dry lips)

Toddlers & Preschoolers: 1–5 Years

This age group catches many viruses as their immune systems develop. Symptoms may look intense—especially with flu—but are often manageable at home.

Common Symptoms

• Fever
• Runny nose and cough
• Vomiting after hard coughing
• Low energy
• Sleep disruption due to congestion

At-Home Treatment

• Honey for children over 1 year
• Steamy bathroom “showers” to loosen mucus
• Humidifier and good hydration (water, Pedialyte, warm broths)
• Acetaminophen or ibuprofen for comfort and fever
• Nasal saline rinses if tolerated
• Slight elevation during sleep for easier breathing

Additional Notes

Flu in this age range often appears suddenly—high fever, fatigue, chills, and body aches. If caught within 48 hours of onset, antiviral medication may be an option.

When to Call Us

• Fever lasting more than 3 days
• Very fast breathing
• Possible dehydration
• Ear tugging or new ear pain (post-viral ear infections are common)

School-Age Children: 6–12 Years

School-aged kids typically recover faster, but viruses spread easily in classrooms and activities.

Common Illnesses Right Now

• Flu (high fever, body aches, fatigue)
• RSV (cough and congestion)
• Adenovirus (cold symptoms + possible pink eye)
• Strep throat (fever, sore throat, swollen glands)

At-Home Treatment

• Plenty of fluids—kids often get dehydrated more quickly than expected
• Warm liquids such as soups or tea with honey
• Fever reducers as needed
• Adequate rest
• Saltwater gargles for sore throat (if they can do it safely)

When to Contact Us

• Sore throat without cough (possible strep)
• Persistent fever
• Chest pain or difficulty breathing
• Symptoms lasting 10+ days

Teens: 13–18 Years

Teens may downplay symptoms, but flu and RSV can still cause significant fatigue and respiratory symptoms.

Common Symptoms

• High fever
• Chills
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Chest tightness
• Persistent cough

At-Home Care

• Focus on hydration (teens often forget to drink)
• Avoid intense physical activity until fully recovered
• Warm compresses for sinus pressure
• Antivirals may be appropriate for flu if started early

When to Seek Evaluation

• Breathing difficulty
• Chest pain
• Persistent fever with worsening cough (possible pneumonia)
• Dizziness or poor fluid intake

General Treatment Principles for All Ages

• Hydrate well
• Prioritize rest
• Keep fever comfortable
• Support with humidifier, saline, and suction as appropriate
• Monitor breathing closely
• Keep children home until fever-free for 24 hours without medication

When We Want to See Your Child

Please reach out if your child has any of the following:

• Rapid breathing or working hard to breathe
• Persistent high fevers
• Dehydration (dry lips, no tears, fewer wet diapers or less urine)
• Extreme fatigue or unusual sleepiness
• Symptoms lasting longer than expected
• A gut feeling that something isn’t right

We’re here to help—whether you need guidance, reassurance, or an in-office evaluation.