When your baby has a bunged up nose or is wheezy, it may be difficult to know whether to treat your child at home, or if you need medical help. County Durham CCG, working with Tees Valley CCG, has produced a number of Little Orange Book resources, designed to help the parents of babies and small children displaying cold symptoms and breathing problems.
During the pandemic, children have mixed less and some under twos haven’t yet developed the usual immunity to everyday illnesses. This year, the NHS is expecting more babies and toddlers to get common viruses like Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV).
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common virus most children catch before they turn two. Whilst most cases are mild and can be treated at home, it can be more serious in small babies, premature babies, and those born with a heart condition or respiratory illness.
Is your child displaying any of these symptoms? Or others you may be concerned about?
- Cold symptoms and a rattly chest/ dry cough
- Rattles and wheezes that make it harder to feed
- A high temperature
- Pauses in breathing
- A change in colour
Try consulting the materials linked below to ensure your child receives the correct medical attention:
Our Coughs and Noisy Breathing in Young Babies leaflet has been designed to guide you on when to nurse your child at home, and when to seek further medical advice.
You can also watch our short video to find out more about the symptoms of RSV, and what help you can access if you are concerned.
The full Little Orange Book, which covers a wide range of aliments in children from common minor ailments like teething, constipation and colds, through to more serious conditions can downloaded here.