Common cold: Babies 3-12 months

The common cold makes babies uncomfortable and irritable and can be distressing for parents. In 3-12 month old babies, there is no need to use medicines like cough syrup – these can actually be dangerous for young babies. Cold symptoms usually take care of themselves in about a week, but sometimes become more serious.

Parents need to be able to differentiate between symptoms of the common cold, and symptoms of more serious conditions, so they can decide when to see a doctor. They also need to know how to relieve their baby’s symptoms and make them as comfortable as possible while they recover.

Baby colds

Colds are common, especially in babies. Although they’re usually not serious, it’s normal for parents to worry about what is causing their baby’s sickness. Find out more about baby colds and what causes them.

Baby cold symptoms

A baby with a cold will have symptoms like a blocked nose and a cough for 1-2 weeks. They should start to improve after the third day. If symptoms get worse or are very serious, you need to see a doctor. Learn more about baby cold symptoms.

Preventing baby colds

Colds are common but parents can take steps to prevent them. Breastfeeding is the best way to protect a baby from infection. Hand washing and keeping baby away from people and objects with cold germs also helps. Find out more ways to prevent colds in babies.

When to take a baby with a cold to the doctor

Your baby has a blocked nose and a cough. Any parent would be distressed, but should you wait and see or race to the doctor? Find out more about when to take a baby with a cold to the doctor.

Caring for a baby with a cold

When your baby is sick, you want to do everything you can to comfort them. There’s plenty of things you can do to show them your love and make them comfortable, but a few things you shouldn’t do. Read about how to look after a baby with a cold.

Baby cold remedies

Baby cold remedies are simple measures to help relive uncomfortable symptoms. Generally they do not include medicines. Find out more about remedies you can use when your baby has a cold, and the medicines you should avoid.

Baby cold: Tips for parents

There are many dos and a few don’ts when your baby has a cold. You’ll need to be able to recognise symptoms which should be seen by a doctor, and times when you can wait and see. You’ll also want to do everything you can to help your baby, and avoid anything that can harm them. See all the dos and don’ts in Baby cold tips for parents.

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