Children are more likely than adults to get a cold or flu. This is likely due to their immature immune systems and the close contact they have with other children in class, on the playground, etc. Cold and flu in children, especially those under 5, can turn into something far more serious, like pneumonia or ear infections.

There is no cure for colds or the flu, so treatments are only able to relieve symptoms.  It is important  to consult your pediatrician before  providing medication. The flu vaccine is recommended for infants between the age of 6 months and 59 months.

If infants 3 months or younger have symptoms of cold or flu, such as coughing, refusal to eat food several times in a row, high temperature, irritable and very sleepy, then you should contact your pediatrician right away. Because flu vaccines are not available for infants under 6 months, parents should make sure other family members get vaccinations, and be extra careful with exposure and hygiene.

Aspirin should not be used in children due to Reye syndrome. Over the counter relief products are not approved for children under the age of 2.

The risk of getting cold or flu declines with age. For children over the age of 2, over the counter treatments for symptoms of flu and cold have been approved, including nasal decongestants, antihistamines, mild analgesics, and bronchodilator therapy.