I thought I would write up some advice on what to do when your child has a head cold or some other form of viral infection. As when my child came down sick I couldn't find a place to go to look for a set list of suggestions.

1.

Invest in a humidifier/vapouriser - they can be bought for under $50 and fill the room with steam which helps with breathing. You can also add mixtures to them (which you buy at the chemist) that help with breathing as well. Eg. Eucalyptus and Tea Tree mixtures.

2. Give the child some form of children's panadol if they are running a fever or appear in pain (if you have the same bug you would probably have a fair idea of how they are feeling). Make sure you always follow the guidelines written on the packet and consult with a Dr. or pharmacist first if you are unsure whether or not your child needs the panadol.

3. You can buy fragrant capsules from the pharmacy (we have Karvol here in Australia) which can be snapped open and the liquid poured onto a handkerchief tied onto the cot rails or somewhere near where the child sleeps. These capsules also help with breathing and blocked noses but should not be used for children under 3 months of age.

3. Put Vicks baby balsam on the child's chest, back and neck to help break up the mucus in their chest and to assist with breathing. The cooling effect can also be quite relaxing when you're not feeling 100%.

4. Prop up the child with pillows to help ease with breathing. If the child is too young for pillows and/or sleeps in a cot you can place pillows and cushions underneath the mattress to elevate the head of the mattress and help with breathing that way.

5. Keep up fluids - so make sure there is plenty of water available for your child. If you are breastfeeding contine to give as much milk as the child demands. If your child has diarrhoea and/or vomiting you can buy a drink or iceblocks from the chemist which replaces electrolytes in the child's body which helps to prevent dehydration from occuring.

6. In the main living area you can burn a couple of drops of eucalyptus or tea tree oil with a drop of lavender in an incence/tea light burner. Make sure you add water as well.

7. Wipe snotty noses with tissues and make sure you dispose of them immediately in the trash can. Wash your hands after to try and stop the spread of infection.

8. There is no need to hold back food or activity - your child shouldn't overdo themselves and will only eat as much and play as much as they feel up to.

9. For older children you can try inhaling - fill a bowl with boiling water and add a couple of drops of eucalyptus oil. Place a towel over their head and let them breath in the steam as it should help clear congested noses and chests. I also find butter menthols to be helpful as they always soothe my sore throats.

10. If your baby develops nappy rash from diarrhoea or generally just from being unwell make sure you stop using nappy wipes (the fragrance and soaps they use in the wipes will irritate the inflamed bottom further) and instead fill a little plastic bucket with warm water and a couple of drops of lavender oil and then use cotton balls to wipe the soiled bottom. Leave out any shampoos/soaps at bathtime and instead add 1/2 cup of bi-carb soda to the baby bath and let the baby soak in that. Both bi-carb soda and lavender calm inflamed skin. *If your child is unwell it may be best to leave out the night time bath so they're not exposed to the cold*

11. Finally if you want professional advice ring your family doctor, the local child health nurse, a pharmacist or the health line for your country. The one here in Australia is: 1800 022 222 and is a 24 hour health advice line.

I am just a Mum and have gathered this knowledge from first-hand experience and advice from my family doctor and pharmacist; however I do not replace a professional's opinion so always make sure you consult with your own doctor or a similar professional before following any advice you're unsure of.