The common cold is the most frequently encountered illness in infants and children as they experience more prolonged symptoms than adults. It has been estimated that common cold is responsible for almost 22 million missed days of school and 20 million absences from work, including time away from work caring for ill children.

Children under six years’ experience average six to eight colds per year, with symptoms lasting an average of 14 days, suggestive that a child could be ill with intermittent cold symptoms without cause for concern. Young children in daycare suffer from more colds in comparison to children cared for at home. Moreover, when day-care children enter primary school, they catch fewer colds, as they are already immune to a larger number. Although common cold may occur at any time of year, most colds occur during the fall and winter months, irrespective of the geographic location.

Droplets containing viral particles through breathing or coughing can be exhaled into the air. Although rhinoviruses are not transmitted via contact with infected droplets, influenza virus and coronavirus can be transmitted through small droplets. Therefore, it is necessary to adapt preventive measures such as mask-wearing, social distancing related to the COVID-19 pandemic should be followed to slow down the overall spread of cold viruses in children.

Common cold caused by SARS-CoV-2 responsible for COVID-19 usually begins four to six days after exposure but may occur as long as 14 days after exposure. The most common symptoms include fever and a nonproductive cough while runny nose, abdominal pain, vomiting, or diarrhea may also occur. Although COVID-19 infection in children in most cases are mild or even asymptomatic whereas severe infection, hospitalization, and death are less common in children in comparison to adults.

Although majority children do not develop complications, parents should be aware of the signs and symptoms.

Symptomatic treatment includes antihistamines, decongestants, cough medicines, and expectorants, alone and in combinations. However, FDA has recommended against the use of these medications in children younger than six years. Acetaminophen can be given to treat a child (older than three months). Besides, humidified air may improve symptoms of nasal congestion and runny nose. Saline nose drops can be given to infants to thin the mucus, followed by bulb suction to remove nasal secretions. Drinking an adequate amount of fluids should be encouraged by their parents.

Source: Torchia MM, Edwards MS, Pappas DE. Patient education: The common cold in children (Beyond the Basics). Available at: https://www.uptodate.com/contents/the-common-cold-in-children-beyond-the-basics