Viral Infections in kids

A viral infection happens when germs enter the body and make you sick. Common signs include fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, tiredness, or a rash.

Babies and young children often catch viruses, especially in places like schools and daycares. Common viruses include colds, flu, RSV, and hand, foot and mouth disease.

Learn more about triggers, signs and symptoms of viral infections.

First Aid for Viral Infections

Viruses can make each child feel sick in different ways. Because they’re caused by a virus (not bacteria), antibiotics won’t help.

Care at home for milder symptoms:

• Make your child comfortable and encourage them to rest
• Encourage sips of water for children and older babies
• If breastfeeding, give small feeds often during the day
• Ask the pharmacist about using children’s paracetamol or ibuprofen for fever or pain
• Use saline drops or a nasal aspirator for blocked nose

Call Health Direct for advice if you are unsure about your child’s symptoms and what to do.

Go to the emergency department if your child:

• is not eating or drinking anything for more than 6 hours
• is having less than 4 wet nappies a day
• pain doesn’t go away even with pain relief
• has vomiting or diarrhoea for more than a day with other symptoms
• has a fever for more than 2 days
• appears to be getting worse and you are worried

Call Triple Zero (000) for an ambulance if your child:

• has difficulty breathing
• has a stiff neck, headache or rash
• is difficult to wake
• has pale skin or vomiting with other symptoms