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Why Is Winter Tough on Children’s Health?
As winter settles in, children are more vulnerable to seasonal illnesses due to weaker immune systems and increased exposure to germs at school, daycare, and social gatherings. Coughs, colds, flu, ear infections, and stomach bugs are all more common during colder months.
At Village Pharmacy Charlton, we support parents in Greenwich, Woolwich, Blackheath, Kidbrooke, and surrounding areas with expert advice, over-the-counter treatments, and vaccinations to keep children healthy during winter.
Common Winter Illnesses in Children and How to Manage Them
1. Coughs and Colds
Most colds are caused by viruses, meaning antibiotics won’t help, but symptom relief and supportive care can make a big difference.
Symptoms:
- Runny or blocked nose
- Sneezing
- Mild cough
- Sore throat
- Low-grade fever
- General tiredness
How to Help Your Child Recover:
- Encourage rest – Plenty of sleep helps the body fight off infections.
- Keep them hydrated – Offer warm drinks, soups, and plenty of fluids.
- Use saline drops or vapour rubs – Helps ease congestion.
- Provide children’s paracetamol or ibuprofen – Reduces fever and discomfort (always follow dosage instructions).
For personalised advice, visit our Pharmacy First service to find the best treatment for your child’s symptoms.
2. Flu and High Fevers
The flu is more severe than a cold and can cause complications, particularly in younger children.
Symptoms:
- Sudden high fever (above 38°C)
- Body aches and chills
- Headache and extreme tiredness
- Dry cough and sore throat
- Loss of appetite
When to Seek Help:
- If fever lasts more than three days
- If your child has difficulty breathing or persistent vomiting
- If they appear very drowsy or unresponsive
Prevention:
- Flu Vaccination – The NHS recommends free flu jabs for children aged 2-17. Book your child’s flu vaccination at Village Pharmacy Charlton.
- Handwashing – Encouraging regular handwashing helps prevent the spread of flu viruses.
3. Ear Infections
Ear infections are common in children and often occur after a cold or flu.
Symptoms:
- Ear pain (may worsen at night)
- Pulling or tugging at the ear
- Difficulty hearing
- Fever
- Irritability and difficulty sleeping
How to Treat It:
- Pain relief – Children’s ibuprofen or paracetamol can ease pain.
- Warm compress – Helps soothe ear discomfort.
- Encourage swallowing – Sipping fluids or chewing can help relieve pressure in the ears.
Most mild ear infections clear up within a few days, but if symptoms persist or worsen, visit Village Pharmacy Charlton for professional advice.
4. Stomach Bugs (Gastroenteritis)
Norovirus and other stomach viruses spread quickly in schools and nurseries, leading to vomiting, diarrhoea, and dehydration risks.
Symptoms:
- Vomiting and diarrhoea
- Stomach cramps
- Mild fever
- Loss of appetite
How to Help Your Child Recover:
- Encourage fluids – Oral rehydration solutions (ORS) prevent dehydration.
- Avoid dairy and heavy foods – Stick to bland foods like toast, bananas, and rice.
- Let them rest – The body needs time to recover.
If symptoms persist for more than 48 hours, or if there are signs of dehydration (dry mouth, sunken eyes, no urine for 8+ hours), seek medical advice immediately.
Preventing Winter Illnesses in Children
While some seasonal illnesses are unavoidable, simple habits can help keep children healthier during winter:
- Encourage frequent handwashing – Reduces the spread of germs.
- Keep vaccinations up to date – Protects against flu and other preventable diseases.
- Ensure a balanced diet – Foods rich in vitamins A, C, and D help support the immune system.
- Encourage outdoor play – Fresh air and moderate exercise help strengthen overall health.
- Dress appropriately – Layers keep children warm without overheating.
For advice on immune-boosting vitamins, speak to our team at Village Pharmacy Charlton about child-friendly supplements.
When to Seek Professional Help
While most winter illnesses in children resolve on their own, certain warning signs indicate that medical attention is needed:
- Difficulty breathing or wheezing
- High fever that doesn’t improve with medication
- Dehydration symptoms (dry mouth, lack of urination, sunken eyes)
- Severe ear pain or prolonged crying
- Unusual drowsiness or lethargy
If your child is experiencing these symptoms, visit Village Pharmacy Charlton, where our pharmacists can offer professional guidance on the next steps.
Visit Village Pharmacy Charlton for Children’s Health Support
At Village Pharmacy Charlton, we understand how stressful it can be when your child is unwell. That’s why we offer:
- Expert pharmacist consultations
- Over-the-counter treatments for common winter illnesses
- Flu vaccinations for children
- Advice on immune support and general health
Contact Us Today
Visit us at: 9 The Village, London SE7 8UG
Call us on: 020 8858 0907
Email: nhspharmacy.fxf89@nhs.net
For more information, to explore our full range of pharmacy services.
Final Thoughts
Winter can be a challenging time for children’s health, but early intervention, preventive care, and expert advice can make a big difference. By recognising symptoms early, keeping up with vaccinations, and maintaining good hygiene habits, parents can help their children stay healthy and recover faster from seasonal illnesses.
If you need advice, treatment options, or vaccinations, visit Village Pharmacy Charlton. Our pharmacists are here to support your family’s health throughout the winter months.
