Croup
The croup is a common yet sometimes frightening childhood virus caused by an inflammation of the larynx and the trachea, which causes its distinctive, bark-like cough.
What are the symptoms of croup?
- Cold symptoms and fever
- Hoarse voice, barking cough
- Rapid noisy breathing, difficult breathing
How does it spread?
- Direct contact
- Indirect contact with germs from the nose or mouth (on hands, toys, tissues, etc.)
- Droplets transmission (when a child coughs or sneezes and droplets reach other children who are close by)
What can you do as a parent to help your child?
- Offer your child fluids and encourage them to rest.
- Give acetaminophen (such as Tempra®) or ibuprofen for fever.
NOTE: The Canadian Paediatric Society does not recommend giving ibuprofen to babies under 6 months old without first talking to your physician. - Clear nasal congestion with a rubber suction bulb and saline (saltwater) nose drops.
- In older children, offer saltwater for gargling to help ease a sore throat.
- Consult a doctor if symptoms persist or worsen.