Cough, Cold & Flu Season

When to Call Keānuenue Pediatrics During Cold and Flu Season

The fall and winter months bring a wide range of viruses—some well-known like influenza and RSV, and others less familiar like rhinovirus, parainfluenza, and non-COVID coronaviruses. These infections are common and often mild, but it’s not always easy to know when to ride it out at home and when to call the doctor.

Here’s what we want you to know.

Common Viral Symptoms in Children

Most viral illnesses in kids cause a similar set of symptoms, including:

• Fever
• Runny nose or congestion
• Cough
• Fussiness or clinginess
• Headaches or body aches
• Poor appetite or decreased intake
• Low energy or fatigue
• Viral rashes (pink or red spots, often on the body)

These symptoms are usually manageable at home with rest, hydration, and comfort measures. Many children bounce back within 5–7 days, with the worst symptoms typically peaking around day 3 or 4.

So When Should You Call the Doctor?

Anytime you’re unsure. You know your child best. If something doesn’t seem right—call us. We’re here to help you figure out what’s going on and what to do next.

Definitely call if you notice:

• Trouble breathing (fast, labored, or visibly hard breathing)
• Signs of dehydration (dry lips, no tears, fewer wet diapers)
• Severe or ongoing pain, especially if your child is inconsolable
• Lethargy or listlessness (words we take seriously in pediatrics)
• Fever lasting more than 5 days
• Symptoms not improving by days 5–7

We can often see you the same day in clinic or offer guidance through a telehealth visit.

What About COVID-19?

Since COVID-19 symptoms often look like the common cold or flu, please call us if your child has symptoms or a known exposure. We’ll walk you through your options but usually testing is not necessary since our recommendations would be the same as for other viruses.

If your child is having symptoms and you’re not quite sure what’s going on, you can check out our symptom checker on the website. This tool will guide you through a series of questions that will help you explore your child’s symptoms and possible causes as well as give you appropriate advice.

Support at Home: How to Help Your Child Feel Better

If your child is generally okay—breathing comfortably, staying hydrated, and not in pain—home care is often all that’s needed. Here are some tips:

• Hydration is key. Offer small, frequent sips of fluids.
• Fever? You don’t always need to treat it. A fever is a sign the body is fighting infection. Only treat it if your child is uncomfortable, using age-appropriate doses of Tylenol or Motrin. Visit our dosing guide here.
• Congested? Use steam (humidifier or foggy bathroom), saline spray, and gentle suction.
• Rest and affection. Comfort and snuggles go a long way—this is when your keiki needs your love and reassurance the most.

Need Help Deciding What to Do?

• Use our Symptom Checker on the website to explore symptoms and get trusted guidance.
• Send us a message through Spruce, our secure texting system.
• Or call the office—we’ll talk through what’s happening and figure out the next step together.

At Keānuenue Pediatrics, we’re here to walk beside you—through the sniffles, fevers, and late-night worries. You’re never alone, and no concern is too small.

Peace out!