As the temperature drops across Pakistan, parents in Multan, Lahore, and Karachi face one common challenge — keeping their children safe from cough, cold, and flu.

Children’s immune systems are still developing, making them more vulnerable to viruses spread through school classrooms, playgrounds, and family gatherings.

In this guide, we’ll share practical prevention tips and explain when to consult a pediatrician online through EasyElaj.

Why Cough and Cold Are Common Among Children in Winter

During winter, viruses like rhinovirus and influenza become active in the cold, dry air. When kids touch contaminated surfaces or breathe infected droplets, they can easily catch a cold or sore throat.
Other reasons include:

• Playing outdoors without warm clothing
• Low indoor humidity that dries nasal passages
• Exposure to schoolmates with flu or a cold
• Poor hand hygiene

Common Symptoms to Watch For

Keep an eye on these signs to identify illness early:

• Runny or stuffy nose
• Sneezing and coughing
• Mild fever
• Loss of appetite
• Sore throat
• Fatigue or restlessness

If symptoms worsen — such as difficulty breathing, high fever, or wheezing — consult a doctor immediately.

Home Care for Children with Cough and Cold

When your child catches a cold, comfort and simple home remedies can make a big difference. While most viral infections are mild, proper home care ensures quicker recovery and helps prevent complications like chest infections or bronchitis.

Keep Your Child Hydrated

• Encourage warm fluids such as soups, warm milk with honey (for children over 1 year), and herbal teas.
• Hydration keeps mucus thin and helps ease coughing and nasal congestion.
• Avoid cold drinks or ice cream during infection.

Maintain a Warm and Humid Environment

• Use a humidifier or steam inhalation (under adult supervision) to soothe the throat and clear nasal blockage.
• Keep your child away from cold drafts or direct fan air.
• Avoid excessive layering—too much heat can cause sweating and discomfort.

Gentle Remedies for Cough and Congestion

• Apply mustard oil with garlic (lightly warmed) on the chest, back, and feet to promote warmth and relief.
• Give a saline nasal spray or drops to ease nasal stuffiness.
• For mild sore throats, offer lukewarm salt-water gargles (only for older kids who can gargle safely).
• Honey + ginger syrup (1 tsp) twice a day is effective for soothing dry cough (for children over 1 year).

Prioritize Rest and Comfort

• Ensure your child gets plenty of sleep, as rest boosts the immune system.
• Keep them home from school or daycare until symptoms improve to avoid spreading infections.
• Light storytelling, coloring, or quiet playtime can help them stay calm and happy.

Prevention Tips to Keep Children Safe in Winter

Prevention is always better than cure—especially for kids with weaker immune systems. Here are some doctor-approved prevention tips to protect your children throughout the winter season in Multan and across Pakistan:

1. Strengthen Immunity Naturally

• Include vitamin C-rich foods (oranges, guava, amla, tomatoes) and zinc sources (eggs, lentils, meat).
• Give them a balanced diet with warm meals, seasonal vegetables, and soups.
• Encourage daily sunlight exposure for 15–20 minutes to maintain Vitamin D levels.

2. Dress Smartly for the Weather

• Dress children in layers so you can adjust clothing based on indoor/outdoor temperature.
• Always cover the chest, ears, and feet before going outdoors.
• Dry and change wet clothes immediately to prevent chills.

3. Maintain Hygiene and Clean Habits

• Teach kids to wash their hands frequently, especially before meals and after school.
• Keep their toys and surfaces sanitized, particularly if someone at home is sick.
• Avoid sharing towels, bottles, or utensils among siblings.

4. Keep Indoor Air Clean

• Use air purifiers or place indoor plants like aloe vera to improve air quality.
• Avoid smoking indoors — secondhand smoke increases the risk of respiratory illness.
• Keep windows slightly open for ventilation, especially if using heaters.

5. Limit Exposure to Sick People

• Avoid crowded public places or indoor gatherings when infections are common.
• Encourage children to wear a light mask if someone nearby has flu or cough symptoms.
• If one child is sick, give them separate bedding and utensils temporarily.

6. Get Regular Checkups

• Schedule routine pediatric checkups, especially for infants or children with asthma or allergies.
• Discuss with your doctor about flu vaccination or other preventive immunizations.
• Use EasyElaj’s online pediatric consultation for safe, convenient, and quick medical advice at home.

Final Takeaway

Winter coughs and colds are common, but with attentive home care and preventive measures, your child can stay healthy and happy all season long.
By combining simple remedies, strong hygiene habits, and timely medical consultation, parents in Multan and across Pakistan can ensure their kids avoid severe complications.

If your child shows persistent fever, chest congestion, or fatigue, don’t wait — book an online consultation on EasyElaj and talk directly with a qualified pediatric specialist from the comfort of home.