Key points about the common cold in children

• The common cold is one of the most common illnesses. Most children will have at least 6 to 8 colds a year.
• Most colds are caused by rhinoviruses.
• Your child can catch a cold through airborne droplets from or through direct contact with a sick person.
• Sneezing, coughing, and a runny nose are common symptoms. Symptoms often last about 1 week.
• There is no cure for the common cold. The goal of treatment is to ease symptoms until your child feels better.
• Colds can be prevented by washing hands often.

Next steps

Tips to help you get the most from a visit to your child’s healthcare provider:

• Know the reason for the visit and what you want to happen.
• Before your visit, write down questions you want answered.
• At the visit, write down the name of a new diagnosis, and any new medicines, treatments, or tests. Also write down any new instructions your provider gives you for your child.
• Know why a new medicine or treatment is prescribed and how it will help your child. Also know what the side effects are.
• Ask if your child’s condition can be treated in other ways.
• Know why a test or procedure is recommended and what the results could mean.
• Know what to expect if your child does not take the medicine or have the test or procedure.
• If your child has a follow-up appointment, write down the date, time, and purpose for that visit.
• Know how you can contact your child’s provider after office hours. This is important if your child becomes ill and you have questions or need advice.