More than 100 rhinoviruses can cause the the common cold. While not a serious infection in itself, colds are a leading cause of illness in children. In fact, the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases reports that colds cause students to miss 20 million school days each year in the United States. While the virus's effects -- including fever -- are usually minor in severity, younger kids are at greater risk for more serious conditions.
Prevalence
Children, particularly young ones, are at higher risk for catching the common cold. Their immune systems haven't built defenses against the multiple viruses that cause the sickness. In fact, kids may have 16 to 20 colds by age 2, according to the Canadian Paediatric Society. The chances of catching a cold is even greater in certain children. Kids who attend daycare have more colds; however, this also means they build up immunity to different cold viruses quicker as well. Children with older siblings are also more likely to get a cold. Colds are more common in chilly weather because people spend more time indoors in close quarters -- not because cold temperatures cause the illness.
Effects
Cold symptoms include congestion, sneezing, a runny nose, minor fatigue, headaches, a sore throat and coughing. Children may also lose their appetite during this time. While not always present, kids are more likely than teens or adults to have a fever along with their cold. This is particularly the case among infants and young children. Fevers associated with this virus are low grade and should not be any higher than 102 degrees. Symptoms could last up to two weeks.
Treatment
While no cure exists for the common cold, you can reduce your child's discomfort. Fever and minor aches can be treated with over-the-counter pain relievers. Talk with your child's doctor before administering any medication. Never give aspirin to kids under 12 or cough and cold drugs to those under age 4. Older children and teens should not take aspirin while they have a cold or other virus as this increases their risk for developing a potentially fatal reaction. Use a cool air humidifier to provide relief for nasal congestion. Offering nutritious foods, plenty of fluids and making the environment comfortable for your child are the best ways to provide relief.
Precautions
Seek medical attention if your child has a fever over 102 degrees, as this is indicative of an illness more severe than a cold. Some of the viruses that cause colds can lead to serious conditions in children under age 3, including bronchiolitis, inflammation of the lungs' bronchioles, and croup, which causes breathing difficulty. Colds can also lead to ear infections and cause complications for children with respiratory problems such as asthma. Symptoms that persist or grow more severe -- including a high fever, a worsening cough, facial pain and earaches -- should be reported to your child's doctor.
References
- "Paediatrics & Child Health"; Colds in Children; October 2005
- American Lung Association: Facts about the Common Cold
- FamilyDoctor.org; Colds and the Flu in Children
- KidsHealth from Nemours: Common Cold
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Cold and Cough Medicines: Information for Parents
- National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases: Common Cold Overview
