Protecting Children from Viral Illnesses in the New Year – Oxford

Protecting Children from Viral Illnesses in the New Year | Oxford Pediatrician

As a consultant general paediatrician and paediatric emergency medicine specialist with over 20 years in the NHS, I’ve seen first hand how respiratory viruses peak in January and February in Oxford. Although flu season may have passed its highest point, we still face RSV, COVID-19 and other viral infections that can challenge families.

Why Vigilance Matters

Respiratory viral infection in children is inevitable in modern society. While it’s impossible to prevent every bug, sensible steps can reduce impact and ensure serious infections are recognised promptly. According to UK national surveillance data, influenza peaks earlier but other viruses follow closely.

Practical Steps to Take Now

1. Good hand hygiene remains the single best infection control measure. Wash hands regularly.
2. Shield the vulnerable - babies under 3 months and the elderly or immunocompromised. Do this by keeping symptomatic patients away until 48 hours after their last high temperature, vomiting or diarrhoea.
3. Give a daily multivitamin containing vitamin D.
4. Monitor for signs of invasive or bacterial infection: persistent high grade temperatures, daily fevers beyond five days, increased work of breathing, rashes which don't disappear when pressed, significantly reduced feeding or drinking, or a gut feeling that something isn’t right.
5. Use regular paracetamol and encourage sugar-containing fluids while unwell.

Recognising Serious Signs

If you notice any of the symptoms above, seek prompt assessment. At our Oxford clinic, we offer same-day appointments to review your child in person and advise on next steps.

Common Myths Debunked

1) Children catch viruses from being out in the cold - children catch viruses from anywhere. While it is hard to study, the time spent concentrated in groups indoors in warm, moist air environments are probably where viruses spread fastest.

2) Cough medicine is needed for a cough - A child coughing is never nice to hear but the cough is a protective reflex keeping your child's breathing safe. We wouldn't want so suppress it if we could so it is a good thing that cough syrups don't work for that!

3) Children become resistant to antibiotics - The worry is that certain bacterial populations can become resistant, not the child. Often the same antibiotic can keep your child safe from several different infections.

If you are ever worried about the health of your child they should be assessed promptly and in person by a clinician.

Book an appointment with me, Dr Nick Richens, at Mayfield Clinic Oxford for fast, personalised care.