Babies and Winter colds
Your baby is much more susceptible to cold viruses than you are because her immune system is still developing – plus, every new object she encounters tends to go straight to her mouth!
She’ll be more likely to suffer from colds in the winter because cold viruses survive for longer at low humidity and cold winter air and indoor heat dry out her delicate nasal membranes, making it easier for viruses to enter her system. And it doesn’t help that we spend more time together at close quarters indoors, making it easier for germs to spread between people. If your baby is in daycare she could catch up to 12 colds each year while you’ll probably max out at four or so because your immune system is better developed.
You’ll be familiar with the signs your baby has a cold. She’ll have a runny nose, watery eyes and a mild fever. She may not sleep well and may find it difficult to feed if her nose is stuffy.
Treatment
Unfortunately there’s no miracle cure – your baby’s cold will have to run its course and antibiotics won’t help. Feed her often to keep her hydrated; once she’s over four months you can give her a little water too. If her nose is congested, saline drops may help – using them 10 minutes before a feed can help her to nurse if her stuffy nose is making it hard for her. A humidifier will also help ease congestion, as it moistens the air.
If your baby has a fever, ask your pediatrician about giving her a fever reducer such as ibuprofen. Don’t give her cough and cold medications – the Food and Drug Administration recommends that these are not given to babies under two years of age due to the danger so overdosing (the FDA is currently reviewing the safety of these medications for the over-twos). Avoid medicine with aspirin in it, because of the association with Reye’s syndrome.
Prevention
Although colds can’t be prevented, the likelihood of you, or your baby catching one can be reduced. Breastfeeding boosts your baby’s immune system with your own antibodies, which is great for their defenses. You can also take the precaution of staying away from family and friends if they have a child who is ill; and make sure you avoid places where there are smokers too, as exposure to cigarette smoke increases the likelihood of your baby picking up a cold.
Take care of yourself and give your body what it needs to stay strong and healthy to lessen your risk of catching a cold and passing it on to your baby. Try to make sure you get enough rest, drink plenty of fluids and eat plenty of fruit and vegetables to boost your vitamin intake.
Could it be flu?
A cold tends to develop gradually and if your baby gets a fever it’ll likely be mild. Flu comes on very rapidly and may be accompanied by vomiting and diarrhea, and a high fever. If you think your baby may have flu, consult your pediatrician straightaway as it can cause serious complications in babies and young children (20,000 under-fives are hospitalized due to flu each year in the US). Consider having your baby immunized against flu once she’s over six months – this is particularly important for children with diabetes, a suppressed immune system, or asthma and other lung or heart problems.
See also colds flu and stomach bugs during pregnancy,pregnancy and a healthy diet, pregnancy and medication and what’s safe and what isn't during pregnancy?.
The information in this feature is intended for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your health, the health of your child or the health of someone you know, please consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional.