Coughs, Colds and More Serious Illnesses

1. A child with a cough or cold should be kept warm and encouraged to eat and drink as much as possible. (Supporting Information)
2. Sometimes, coughs and colds are signs of a serious problem. A child who is breathing rapidly or with difficulty might have pneumonia, an infection of the lungs. This is a life-threatening disease and the child needs immediate treatment at a health facility. (Supporting Information)
3. Families can help prevent pneumonia by making sure that babies are exclusively breastfed for at least the first six months and that all children are well nourished and fully immunized. (Supporting Information)
4. A child with a harsh cough needs immediate medical attention. The child may have tuberculosis, an infection in the lungs. (Supporting Information)
5. Children and pregnant women are particularly at risk when exposed to smoke from tobacco or cooking fires. (Supporting Information)