'Tis the season of the sniffles! And your little one will likely suffer from a cold sometime in her first winter. While many adults don’t think twice treating symptoms with over-the-counter medicine, we have to be much more careful with babies.

Never give the following to your infant:

1. Over-the-counter zinc nose spray or drops.

They may damage the nerves in the nose and hurt your baby’s ability to smell.

2. Honey in anything for babies under 1.

It can cause a potentially fatal illness from botulism.

3. Vicks Vaporub.

It can get in the eyes and be VERY irritating. Plus, a 2009 study found it actually increased mucous production and inflammation and can worsen breathing for babies and tots.

4. Cough and cold medicines for children under 4.

Research shows they don’t help little kids much, but they have the potential for serious side effects and overdose.

An FYI about antibiotics:

The American Academy of Pediatrics has advised doctors against prescribing antibiotics for viral respiratory illnesses, like sinusitis, pharyngitis, bronchitis. They don’t work, and they lead to antibiotic resistance in the community, which can harm us all. In fact, 23,000 people die in the US from infections caused by bacteria resistant to antibiotics. 

On the other hand, getting the flu shot can really protect a child – and the whole household – from getting slammed with high fever and chills…or worse!

If your baby does get a cold, check out my article on safe, natural remedies. Stay healthy!

About Dr. Harvey Karp

Dr. Harvey Karp, one of America’s most trusted pediatricians, is the founder of Happiest Baby and the inventor of the groundbreaking SNOO Smart Sleeper. After years of treating patients in Los Angeles, Dr. Karp vaulted to global prominence with the release of the bestselling Happiest Baby on the Block and Happiest Toddler on the Block. His celebrated books and videos have since become standard pediatric practice, translated into more than 20 languages and have helped millions of parents. Dr. Karp’s landmark methods, including the 5 S’s for soothing babies, guide parents to understand and nurture their children and relieve stressful issues, like new-parent exhaustion, infant crying, and toddler tantrums.

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Disclaimer: The information on our site is NOT medical advice for any specific person or condition. It is only meant as general information. If you have any medical questions and concerns about your child or yourself, please contact your health provider.