Coughs, sneezes and lots of runny noses. What's going around this week is very familiar to many families in central Ohio.
Medical experts say now that spring break is behind us and school kids are back in class together and they are and spreading the cold virus among themselves. It is a combination that is sending families with kids to pediatric urgent care experts in central Ohio.
Dr. Mike Patrick, who practices emergency medicine at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, said it’s always an appropriate time to remind kids about hygiene.
For some children, the runny noses and comes with itchy eyes. All are signs of seasonal allergies. Dr. Patrick said treating congestion symptoms for allergies or the cold virus is similar.
“That’s with frequent nose blowing with kids that are old enough, also a humidifier in the room at night, especially at night time might help loosen that mucus up a little bit,” he said.
For babies, Dr. Patrick said saltwater nose drops could be helpful. They are sold over the counter. For those who want to make their own, medical experts agree you should follow recipes closely.
“You make it, use, and throw it out to avoid bacteria growth," recommended Dr. Patrick.