By Kelly A. Johnson, MD
Coughs and colds: It’s a virus
When are antibiotics needed? Almost Never!
Coughs and colds during the winter season are very common and spread easily from person to person. Doctors call these upper respiratory infections and they are caused by viruses. They are spread from the fine mist of water droplets expelled when we cough or sneeze. They usually last about a week and then are gone. All you and your child need are fluids, rest, and fever medications. Antibiotics will not treat viral infections and are never used for this purpose. As usual, there are some exceptions and you need to take your child to the doctor:
1) If your child’s symptoms worsen after three to five days. 2) Persistent fever over 100.4 for five days or more. 3) Develops a new fever with worsening cough after three to four days of symptoms. 4) Your child has asthma or wheezing. 5) Develops ear pain. 6) Your child is under 12 months of age and exposed to RSV. 7) Any age child that you suspect has the flu.
RSV is a respiratory virus that causes severe cough and cold symptoms with increased mucus production. It can cause children under two and children with asthma to have difficulty breathing and is a very serious illness. If your child develops severe cough and cold symptoms and is breathing fast or panting, they need to see a doctor immediately.
Flu is also an upper respiratory virus and can present with similar symptoms as RSV except there is usually a higher fever, body aches, sore throat and less mucus production. Getting a flu vaccine can prevent this illness in many cases. Neither RSV or flu can be treated with antibiotics.
As usual, good hand washing and covering your cough will help prevent the spread of all respiratory viruses. Please do not send your child to school until they are fever free for 24 hours to prevent the spread to other children.
If you have further questions, need an appointment, or want to read previous newsletters, go to my website at www.pedihousecalls.com or 214-558-0037.
Kelly A. Johnson, MD
