Colds and flu are very common in pre-school or primary children as they are building up their immune systems. Every time they catch a cold or flu they develop immunity to that infection and as children get older they suffer from fewer colds. On average children have between three and eight coughs and colds per year and sometimes they can occur one after another.

A child is at increased risk of developing a cough or cold if they live in an environment with smokers meaning symptoms could last longer.

The common symptoms of colds and flu are:-

Some people will visit their pharmacy or GP when their child has a cold or cough but there is no magical cure! The body's immune system is often able to battle a cold virus and OTC treatments can be used to alleviate the symptoms. Cold symptoms are usually at their peak in the first two to three days after infection and ease off as the immune system tackles the virus. Coughs can linger for up to two to four weeks after the cold symptoms have gone. 

There are some self-help tips you can provide to parents/carers to help manage their child’s symptoms:-

• Get the child to rest as much as possible
• Keep the child hydrated
• If appetite is lost, don't force them to eat but encourage to drink plenty of fluids
• If it is a baby, continue with their usual feeding routine
• Ensure they are kept warm but not overheated
• To help ease symptoms a child liquid paracetamol or ibuprofen can be given

Offering the flu service

Whilst having your conversations, you are in a good position to mention the flu vaccination service; whether this is offered in pharmacy or via other healthcare professionals, don’t forget to signpost to it.

To read more about how Numark can support you with starting a Flu Vaccination service in your pharmacy, take a look at our pages by clicking here.