Chilling out with Colds

What is a cold?

A cold is an infection of the upper respiratory system.  This just means it affects the nose, throat and ears.  There are over 200 viruses that cause colds.  The rhinovirus is the most common cold virus.

How kids catch colds

When someone sneezes or coughs, mucous drops float in the air.  Breathing in these droplets can spread a cold from one person to another. You can also catch a cold if you touch your eyes or nose after handling something with cold viruses on it.  Video games, doors at the mall and school desks are hotspots for viruses.

Cold clues

Once you have been in contact with a cold virus it takes 2-3 days for cold symptoms to begin.  The following are symptoms of a cold:

1. Low fever (100 to 101 F or 37.2 to 37.8 C)
2. Body chills
3. Itchy or sore throat
4. Sneezing, runny nose and watery eyes
5. Coughing
6. Feeling tired.
7. Congestion.

Helping kids feel better

Although medicine doesn’t make colds go away faster, some medicines can make a kid feel better while s/he waits for a cold to go away.  Here are some feel-better tips:

• Warm drinks or soup help soothe coughs and sore throats.
• Humidifiers help relieve scratchy throats and stuffy nose as well as loosening mucous.
• Your immune system will be ready to fight colds if you eat a balanced diet and get plenty of sleep.
• Blowing your nose is the best way to get rid of mucous.
• Relax and use the time to read, listen to music or watch a movie.
   

Regards,

School Nurses’ Office
ISG Dhahran
330-0555 ext.2201/2202