Both the flu and the common cold are contagious respiratory illnesses but are caused by different viruses. Flu is caused by the influenza virus, while the common cold is caused by a number of different viruses¹.  For a cold it is better to let it run its course, but should your child not get better, seek medical attention. If it is the flu, it is best to visit your doctor to stop your child from getting worse.

• A high temperature
• Body aches and pains
• Body chills
• Headache
• Sore throat
• Runny nose or stuffy nose
• Cough
• Low energy levels, and fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Some children may experience belly pain, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea²

• Moderate temperature (if any)
• Tickly throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Sneezing
• Energy levels are still high²

The flu and the common cold share similar symptoms, one of which is nasal congestion. Nasal congestion is never pleasant – your head hurts, your sinuses hurt, your nose won’t stop running and you feel completely miserable. When your children are congested, they feel the same way, and depending on their age are unable to let you know or understand how they are feeling. They are uncomfortable and unable to breathe easily which can lead to frustration and in some cases acting out. When you feel relief from nasal congestion, your entire mood changes and you start to feel like your old self again. For children it is the same thing, but it is always difficult making the connection in the beginning.

Congestion occurs as a symptom of colds and flu as well as sinus infections³, and environmental factors such as allergies. Nasal congestion can last between 1 to 2 weeks, or it can last longer if an environmental issue is the cause. If it does persist, and if it occurs with a fever, especially in babies under three months old, a doctor needs to be consulted. Otherwise, home care is all that is recommended.

The symptoms associated with nasal congestion can include:

• A stuffy or runny nose
• Sinus pain
• Mucus build-up
• Swollen nasal tissue

All of these symptoms cause discomfort in children, and it is better to try and alleviate them as soon as possible

Should the above symptoms persist, and the child continue to feel ill, they will need to see a doctor⁴ should the following occur:

• A child younger than 3 months presents with a fever
• A fever that lasts more than five days in a row
• Chills or sweating
• Difficulty breathing
• Nausea or vomiting
• Greenish or bloody nasal discharge
• Unusual sleepiness
• Severe headache
• Persistent crying
• Ear pain

Finding a solution that works is the best thing for any mom. When a child is happy so is mom.

Karvol has long been known as a mother’s trusted, first choice when looking for a solution to help her child breathe easier and even works for the rest of the family as well.

The Karvol range including decongestant capsules, a decongestant room spray and a decongestant chest rub, can help to alleviate nasal congestion associated with colds and flu, allergies, sinusitis and bronchitis.

All products in the range boast the trusted Karvol formula which includes a combination of aromatic oils such as eucalyptus, camphor, thymol, lavender and menthol which when released actively work together to help you breathe more easily.

• The Karvol decongestant capsules when opened can be added to water when steaming, a humidifier or even dropped onto a handkerchief and left next to your bed while sleeping.
• The Karvol decongestant room spray is sprayed twice into a closed room to allow the vapours to spread evenly.
• The Karvol decongestant chest rub is applied directly onto the chest allowing you to breathe in the vapours.

Karvol is every mom’s decongestant dream and is small enough to carry in your baby bag or handbag for on the go relief.