More than 200 different viruses are able to cause six respiratory syndromes in humans. All six syndromes are common in children. Below we discuss one of the syndromes that effect the respiratory tracts of children. Anyone can get this illness in the winter and the early spring but children are primarily infected. Children under age two are at greatest risk of complication if they get this illness.
Most people are sick about a week and then get well.
A runny nose and a slight fever for two to three days are the most common features. Cough, rapid breathing and wheezing for several days are also common. Use a cool-mist vaporizer in the bedroom while the child is sleeping. Run hot water in the shower or bathtub to steam up the bathroom and sit in there with your child if he or she is coughing hard and having trouble breathing. Your child is vomiting and can't keep liquids down.