• Inflammatory condition of the air sacs in the lungs
• Symptoms may include fever, cough, shortness of breath, rapid breathing and fast heart rate
• Caused by a viral infection
• Commonly spread by breathing in infected droplets from the air, contact with oral or nasal secretions or contaminated objects
• Affects males and females but more common in children less than 2 years of age
• May be mild to severe but most often severe in infants less than 6 months of age
• May be life threatening

GENERAL THERAPY

• Symptoms usually last 3 to 4 days
• Encourage plenty of fluids
• Keep home from daycare or school
• Wash hands frequently
• Humidifier or vaporizer in child’s room to moisten air
• Saline drops to nose if congested
• Place child in upright position (car seat)
• Over-the-counter medicines (refer to manufacturer’s recommendations for dosage):
  • Acetaminophen

PRECAUTIONS AND AVOIDANCES

• Do not give Aspirin to children under 20 years
• Avoid contact with anyone who has an infection
• Avoid smoking around the child
• Disinfect counter tops and play areas
• Avoid sharing drinking glasses
• Use tissue only once, then discard

SEEK MEDICAL CARE IF

• Your child was born early
• Your child has heart or lung problems