Everything you need to know about illnesses your kids can bring home this winter

The most common winter illnesses in children

The common cold

The common cold is probably the most common winter illness among children. It is a mild viral infection that is easily transmitted. A child can catch several colds per year, especially if exposed to group environments like school.

• Symptoms : Runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, slight cough, fatigue.
• Prevention : Wash your hands regularly, avoid direct contact with people with colds and cover children well when going out in cold weather.

The flu

The flu is more serious than the common cold, and children are particularly vulnerable to it. The flu virus spreads easily and can cause complications, especially in young children and vulnerable people.

• Symptoms : High fever, body aches, headache, dry cough, intense fatigue.
• Prevention : Flu vaccination from 6 months, hand washing, avoid contact with sick people.

Bronchiolitis

Bronchiolitis is a viral respiratory tract infection that mainly affects babies under two years old. It is caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and can cause difficulty breathing.

• Symptoms : Cough, wheezing, difficulty breathing, fatigue, moderate fever.
• Prevention : Wash hands, avoid public places with infants, ventilate rooms.

Gastroenteritis

Viral gastroenteritis, often caused by rotavirus or norovirus, is an intestinal infection that spreads quickly, especially in schools or daycare settings.

• Symptoms : Diarrhea, vomiting, stomach aches, mild fever.
• Prevention : Reinforced hand hygiene, cleaning of shared surfaces, avoid sharing glasses or cutlery.

Otitis

Acute otitis media often occurs after a respiratory infection, such as a cold. It manifests itself as inflammation of the middle ear and can cause severe pain in children.

• Symptoms : Ear pain, crying, irritability, fever.
• Prevention : Treat respiratory infections at the first signs, consult quickly in the event of persistent pain.

Angina

Angina, or pharyngitis, is a throat infection, which can be viral or bacterial. In children, strep throat can cause severe pain and sometimes requires antibiotics.

• Symptoms : Sore throat, fever, difficulty swallowing, swollen lymph nodes.
• Prevention : Hand hygiene, avoid contact with sick people.

How to prevent winter illnesses in children?

1. Strengthen hand hygiene

Hand washing remains one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of viruses. Teach your children to wash their hands regularly with soap and water, especially after being in contact with other children or after sneezing.

2. Ventilate the rooms regularly

Even in winter, it is important to ventilate the rooms of the house for a few minutes every day. This helps renew the air and eliminate some of the germs present in the air.

3. Maintain a good diet

A diet rich in vitamins, especially vitamin C, helps strengthen children’s immune systems. Offer seasonal fruits and vegetables to give them the nutrients they need to fight viruses.

4. Ensure good hydration

Winter, with dry, heated air, can dehydrate children without them realizing it. Make sure they drink water regularly, especially if they have a fever or illness.

5. Encourage rest

Sleep is a key factor in maintaining a strong immune system. Make sure your child gets enough sleep to fully recover and avoid getting sick.

When to consult a doctor?

Even though most winter illnesses are benign, certain situations require rapid medical consultation:

• If your child has a high fever (over 38.5°C) which persists for more than three days.
• If he presents breathing difficulties or wheezing.
• In case of persistent vomiting or diarrheawhich can lead to dehydration.
• If your child complains about severe ear pain or shows signs of excessive fatigue.
• If your child is lethargic or unusually low on energy.