Winter brings colder temperatures, holiday cheer, and unfortunately, a spike in childhood illnesses. While the common cold is almost a rite of passage for kids during the winter months, more serious infections like RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus), the flu, and others pose a significant risk. Understanding these illnesses, what to look for, how to prevent them, and having a pediatrician available for care can help you keep your children healthy this winter season.
The 4 Most Common Winter Illnesses in Children
1. RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus)
What is it?
RSV is a contagious virus that affects the respiratory tract. It’s one of the most common causes of bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airways) and pneumonia in children under 1 year old.
Symptoms of RSV in Children:
- Runny nose
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Fever
- Difficulty breathing
Why it’s serious:
While most cases are mild, RSV can be severe in infants, especially those under 6 months, and children with underlying health conditions.
2. Influenza (Flu)
What is it?
Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory virus that spreads rapidly in winter.
Symptoms of the Flu in Children:
- High fever
- Chills
- Body aches
- Fatigue
- Cough
- Sore throat
Why it’s serious:
The flu can lead to complications such as pneumonia, ear infections, and sinus infections. Children under 5, especially those under 2, are at higher risk.
3. Common Cold
What is it?
Colds are caused by various viruses, including rhinoviruses, and are the most frequent winter illness.
Symptoms of a Cold in Children:
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sneezing
- Mild fever
- Sore throat
- Cough
Why it’s serious:
While colds are usually mild, they can progress to more severe infections like sinusitis or ear infections.
4. Strep Throat
What is it?
A bacterial infection caused by Streptococcus pyogenes.
Symptoms of Strep Throat in Children:
- Sore throat
- Fever
- Swollen lymph nodes
- White patches on tonsils
Why it’s serious:
Untreated strep throat can lead to complications like scarlet fever or rheumatic fever.
Tips for Preventing Winter Illnesses in Children
1. Practice Good Hand Hygiene
Teach your children to wash their hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Handwashing is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of viruses.
When to wash hands:
- Before meals
- After using the bathroom
- After sneezing, coughing, or blowing their nose
- After coming home from school or daycare
2. Keep Up with Vaccinations
Vaccinations are crucial in protecting your children from serious illnesses.
- Flu Vaccine: Recommended annually for children 6 months and older. The flu shot reduces the risk of flu-related complications.
- RSV Immunization: New preventive options, like the RSV antibody shot, are available for infants and children at higher risk.
- COVID-19 Vaccine: Recommended for children 6 months and older to reduce the risk of severe illness.
3. Teach Healthy Respiratory Habits
Encourage your children to cover their coughs and sneezes with a tissue or their elbow, not their hands. Dispose of tissues immediately and wash hands afterward.
4. Disinfect High-Touch Surfaces
Regularly clean frequently touched surfaces like:
- Doorknobs
- Light switches
- Toys
- Phones and tablets
5. Avoid Sick Contacts
If someone in your household or at school is sick, limit close contact. If your child is showing signs of illness, keep them home to prevent spreading germs to others.
6. Dress Appropriately for Cold Weather
Ensure your child wears layers, hats, gloves, and scarves to stay warm. While cold weather itself doesn’t cause illness, being chilled can weaken the immune system.
7. Boost Immune Health
Support your child’s immune system with:
- Nutritious Meals: Plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
- Hydration: Encourage water intake throughout the day.
- Adequate Sleep: Children need between 8-12 hours of sleep, depending on their age.
When to Seek Medical Care for Your Child
Monitor your child’s symptoms closely. Seek medical attention if you notice:
- Difficulty breathing (rapid breathing, flaring nostrils, or chest retractions)
- Persistent fever (lasting more than 3 days)
- Dehydration (no tears when crying, dry mouth, or reduced urination)
- Severe cough or wheezing
- Extreme fatigue or unresponsiveness
For Infants:
Call your doctor immediately if your baby:
- Has a fever over 100.4°F (38°C) if they are under 3 months old
- Shows signs of difficulty breathing
- Refuses to eat or drink
Partnering with Your Pediatrician
Regular check-ups with your child’s pediatrician are key to preventing and managing winter illnesses. At Avance Care, we have Pediatricians and Children’s Health services, offering:
- Vaccinations to protect against the flu, COVID-19, and other preventable diseases.
- Same-day and next-day sick visits to provide timely care when your child falls ill.
- Expert advice on keeping your family healthy throughout the season.
Schedule an appointment today to ensure your child stays protected this winter, and if you have any concerns. With our same-day, next-day appointments and weekend and extended hours, getting the care you need for your child without an extended wait is easier than ever.
