<i>Common cold, common in children</i>
Common cold in children is very common illness in winter in our country. Common cold actually is a type of upper respiratory tract infection and is caused by few hundred different strains of viruses namely rhinovirus, influenza, parainfluenza virus, adenovirus etc. As strains of viruses are innumerable, antibodies are not protective and vaccine development is also not possible. Most children have three to eight attack of common cold in a year. The symptoms of common cold include runny nose with clear or yellow discharge, cough, fever, sore throat, nasal obstruction, body ache, headache, irritability and distaste for fluid and foods. These symptoms persist for about seven to ten days. Colds spread easily, because the viruses are shed in the secretions of an infected person's nose and throat. These viruses can survive few hours outside the body. Common cold does not have any specific treatment as the cause is virus. Supportive treatment is necessary and helpful to get relief from the symptoms. Paracetamol, anti-histamin, nasal decongestant and plenty of fluid can be taken. Sometime vapor inhalation may give some relief. Vitamin C or citrus foods and zinc also have some effect. Antibiotic is not usually required. If the child does not improve within 5-7 days, a physician or paediatrician should be consulted. Special attention should be taken for the immuno-compromised children. The best way to prevent the spread of common cold is to teach the children to cover their nose and mouth while coughing or sneezing. Hand washing is a very effective tool to control infections. Home management of common cold is more important then running after doctor. Dr M Karim Khan is an Associate Professor of Department of pediatrics of Community Based Medical College, Mymensingh. E mail: mmukkhan1997@yahoo.com
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