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Coughs, colds, and flu are a normal part of babyhood as a baby’s immune system is still developing. To determine if your baby is suffering with one of these common illnesses, the symptoms to look out for include a runny or congested nose, sneezing, mild cough, slight fever, watery eyes, reduced appetite and extra clinginess or irritability.
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To help a baby with a cold, you can try using saline drops or spray to clear a blocked nose, gently suction mucus if needed, keep your baby well-hydrated with breast milk or formula and offer feeds little and often, raise the head of the crib slightly (never use pillows in the crib) and use a cool-mist humidifier.
Coughs, colds and flu are a normal part of babyhood because babies’ immune systems are still developing.
It’s common for them to pick up several colds in their first year - especially if they attend daycare or have older siblings.
Knowing the difference between a baby cold and baby flu, what symptoms to watch for, and how to help at home can give parents much-needed peace of mind.
The information below is for guidance only. If you’re concerned about a baby, contact your pediatrician.
Baby cold symptoms to look out for
Colds in babies are usually mild but can still make your little one uncomfortable. Cold symptoms in babies often appear gradually and may include:
- A runny or stuffynose
- Sneezing
- Mild cough
- Low-grade fever
- Watery eyes
- Reduced appetite
- Extra clinginess or irritability
A cold might cause the baby to have a slightly higher temperature. A fever for babies and children is 100.4°F (38°C) or higher. Learn more about how to take your baby’s temperature here.
Baby cold symptoms can look worse at night, which is why sleep is often disrupted.
Most colds in babies are caused by viruses and won’t need medical treatment. Flu, however, tends to come on more suddenly and can feel more intense.
Baby flu symptoms may include:
- High fever
- Extreme fatigue
- Aches and pains
- Dry cough
- Vomiting or diarrhea
When to take a baby to the doctor for cold or flu
If you think your baby may have the flu, especially if they are under six months old, it’s important to seek medical advice.
Call 911 or go to the ER if a baby or child of any age:
- goes blue or grey on the lips, tongue, face, or skin – on Black or Brown skin this is easier to see on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet
- is finding it hard to breathe or pauses between breaths
- looks to find breathing or coughing painful
- is floppy, will not wake up or stay awake
- is having seizures (fits)
- can't swallow fluids
Most baby colds last 5–10 days, although a cough can linger for up to three weeks. Symptoms are often worst around days 2–3 before gradually improving.
If symptoms last longer than two weeks, worsen, or your baby seems unwell rather than just confested, contact your pediatrician.
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How to help a baby with a cold
There’s no cure for a cold, but there are plenty of ways to ease discomfort. If you’re wondering how to help a baby with a cold or how to treat a baby’s cold, gentle home care is key.
Helpful tips include:
- Use saline drops or spray to clear blocked noses
- Gentle suction with a bulb syringe
- Keep your baby well-hydrated with breast milk or formula
- Offer feeds little and often
- Raise the head of the crib slightly (never use pillows in the crib)
- Use a cool-mist humidifier
If you’re looking for more information and tips about baby congestion and coughs, read our blogs about How to Soothe a Congested Baby and Dealing with Baby’s Cough.
There are home remedies for cold and cough for babies. Like adults, warmth, fluids, and comfort help, however you should avoid:
- Honey if they’re under 1 year
- Over-the-counter cold medicines
- Essential oils directly on skin
How to prevent babies from getting colds or the flu
While you can’t prevent every illness, these steps reduce the risk:
- Wash hands regularly
- Ask people not to visit if unwell
- Clean toys and surfaces often
- Avoid crowded indoor spaces when possible
- Keep vaccinations up to date
The flu vaccine is often given in pregnancy to help protect young babies who are too young to be vaccinated themselves.
Should I take my baby swimming with a cold?
If your baby has:
- Milk congestion
- No fever
- Normal energy levels
…swimming is usually fine.
However, avoid swimming if your baby has:
- A high temperature or fever
- Chest congestion
- Ear pain or infection
- Is unusually tired or unsettled
Always trust your instincts or speak to a healthcare professional for advice – rest is often more beneficial than activities when babies are unwell.
Sleep disruption is one of the hardest parts of a baby with a cold. You can try:
- Clearing their nose before bedtime
- Using a humidifier in the room
- Keeping the room comfortably cool
- Offering extra cuddles and reassurance
- Allowing contact naps if needed
It’s normal for babies to wake more often when ill – this phase will pass.
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Tips for feeding a baby with congestion and sore throat
You may also find feeding a challenge if your baby has a cold or the flu. Here are some tips for managing mealtimes
1. Feed them little and often to ease swallowing
2. Clear the nose using saline drops and gentle suction
3. Keep your baby upright during a feed and after
4. Make sure they’re hydrated by offering feeds regularly
5. Slow the pace of feeds, taking breaks when your baby shows signs they need them
Does breast milk help baby cold recovery?
Yes, it’s possible breast milk can help a baby with a cold recover as it contains essential antibodies, immune cells and anti-inflammatory properties that’ll support the baby’s immune system while naturally soothing their throat and keeping them hydrated.
When to seek advice and support
Always seek medical advice if your baby:
- Is under 3 months old with a temperature
- Has difficulty breathing
- Is feeding poorly or having fewer wet nappies
- Has a fever lasting more than 3-5 days
- Seems unusually drowsy or floppy
Trusting your instincts is never a waste of anyone’s time.
For flu, early advice is especially important. Baby flu treatment at home focuses on fluids, rest and comfort, but some babies may need medical care.
Colds and flu can feel overwhelming, particularly with newborns, but most babies recover well with time, comfort and care. Understanding baby cold symptoms, knowing how long a baby’s cold lasts, and learning how to help a baby with a cold can make a challenging week feel far more manageable.
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