Symptom Checker

Colds in Babies Under 12 Months

A cold in a baby is a viral infection of the nose and throat. It commonly causes congestion, runny nose, sneezing and cough.

Many different respiratory viruses can cause colds. RSV, rhinoviruses, coronaviruses and other viruses can produce similar cold-like symptoms in babies.

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AAP Guide to Colds in Babies Under 12 Months

The AAP guide below explains cold symptoms, safe care and when your baby needs medical attention.

AAP Symptom CheckerColds under 12 months

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When to see a doctor

Contact your pediatrician or another healthcare professional if:

Your baby feeds much less than usual.
Your baby has fewer wet diapers.
Breathing becomes faster, noisier or harder.
A very young baby develops fever.
Symptoms are getting worse rather than gradually improving.

Call 911 or get emergency care if:

Your baby has severe trouble breathing or long pauses in breathing.
Your baby’s lips or face turn blue or gray.
Your baby is very difficult to wake or has another life-threatening symptom.

Talk to a nurse now, at any hour

Hours, addresses and directions

When can my child be seen

Be seen today.

Every office keeps same-day appointments for illness and injury.

This evening or at the weekend.

Most offices run After Hours Care, by appointment rather than walk-in.

If you are worried, call. We would rather answer a question that turns out to be nothing.

Colds in Babies Under 12 Months

AAP Guide to Colds in Babies Under 12 Months

When to see a doctor

Talk to a nurse now, at any hour

When can my child be seen

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