Coughs and colds in children and babies usually get better by themselves within a few days but during this time both the parent and child can feel quite distressed, so here are three steps to help your child or baby during this time:

1. If your child is feeling hot, use paracetamol or ibuprofen to help relieve pain and lower their temperature.
2. There is a range of over-the-counter cough medicines for children over the age of 2. Otherwise a simple cough mixture containing glycerol, honey and lemon are best for treating a cough.
3. To help relieve a blocked or stuffy nose, apply some vapour rub or inhalant decongestant to the child’s clothing. It is recommended to use plain saline nose drops available from the pharmacy for children under 2 years of age, especially if they are having difficulty with feeding.

Please speak to your health visitor, nurse, or pharmacist if you are worried about your child’s health, especially if they are under 2 years of age.

• Always follow the medical advise on your medicine.
• Always follow the recommended dosage.
• Do not use more than one cough medicine at the same time.