No, You Can’t Visit My Baby If You Have a Cold

If you have kids, you’re probably familiar with the parenting dilemmas associated with the common cold. Whether it’s a case of the sniffles or a full-on head cold, moms are constantly assessing just how sick their little one is and what that means for their family. Are they too sick for school or daycare? Do they have to miss that birthday party or piano lesson? Does this require a trip to the doctor, or do you just ride it out?

Only your doctor can give medical advice, but I’ll tell you this: Some colds can be managed at home with rest, plenty of fluids, and a bit of Children’s Advil to relieve fever and discomfort. Children’s Advil is doctor recommended, provides up to 8 hours of fever relief, and comes in both liquid and chewable options, making it a favourite among parents (and kids).

The Mayo Clinic recommends taking your child to the doctor if they have a high or persistent fever (immediately if over 100°F degrees in newborns, or any fever lasting over two days). You should also seek medical attention if they’re wheezing or exhibiting more severe cold symptoms, like a bad cough. Keep an eye out for signs of an ear infection and be especially careful with infants.

While colds are not generally a big cause for concern, they definitely slow people down and are very contagious. In fact, you can even catch a cold from talking to someone who has one, since we open our mouths to speak. These super-contagious germs may also remain on surfaces after exposure (a lovely thought when you’re out for dinner or at the mall, right?), which explains why so many moms love hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes.

We can wash our hands, disinfect toys, eat and sleep well, and so on — all of this helps ward off the common cold — but avoidance plays a big role, too. How vigilant parents are about avoiding cold germs is a matter of individual comfort and preference. You may hear that so-and-so is sick but tell them to come over for dinner anyway. We get it — life doesn’t stop when someone has the sniffles.

OK, with one exception: You are NOT bringing your cold around my baby.

Seniors and infants are particularly vulnerable to viruses like the common cold and often suffer more serious symptoms. A baby with a cold is arguably much more affected than a toddler or school-aged child would be, and certainly more than a healthy adult. This is when my mama bear instincts come out in full force — if you’re sick, please don’t knock on my door or invite us over for a playdate. And for the love of God, don’t even think about kissing my baby if you’re sick! (That means you, Grandma.)

In short, the common cold may not be a huge deal, but when a baby has one, it is — so stay back, Sneezy. Whatever our plans were, they’re canceled. SEE YOU IN THE SPRING, MY FRIEND. (Or whenever you’re feeling better — it’ll probably be more like 10 days, realistically.)

Cold season is in full swing, so remember this: rest, fluids and Children’s Advil can help soothe your little one’s cold symptoms, but it’s better to avoid them altogether. Stay safe and healthy all year — that means you too, mama!

This post is brought to you by Children’s Advil, but the opinions are our own. Be sure this product is right for you. Always read and follow the label.

This information is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute of any kind of professional medical advice. Never disregard or delay seeking professional medical advice due to something you have read on this site. Speak to your healthcare professional before making any changes to your lifestyle and/or beginning or discontinuing any course of treatment.