When a child falls ill with a viral infection, parental anxiety often leads to well-intentioned but potentially harmful actions. In the urgency to reduce fever or quiet a cough, caregivers can inadvertently delay recovery or even worsen the condition. To guide parents through these challenging times, pediatrician Dr. Milind Jambagi shared crucial advice in an Instagram video posted in December 2025. His insights are vital in an era of instant online advice and easy access to medications, highlighting how small missteps impact healing. Here are the five critical things parents should never do.
Avoid Over-the-Counter Cold and Cough Syrups
Dr. Jambagi issues a strong warning against administering over-the-counter (OTC) cold or cough medicines to children, particularly infants and toddlers. These drugs do not cure viral symptoms and can be unsafe for young children, potentially causing unwanted side effects. Instead, he recommends gentler, natural remedies to relieve congestion. These include saline nasal sprays, saline nebulisation, and supervised steam inhalation for older children. For kids over one year old, a teaspoon of honey can soothe a cough effectively, providing relief without introducing unnecessary chemicals into the child's system.
Resist Demanding or Reusing Antibiotics
A common parental misconception is that antibiotics are a quick fix for any infection. Dr. Jambagi clarifies that antibiotics are ineffective against viruses. Their unnecessary use contributes to the growing global threat of antibiotic resistance, making future bacterial infections harder to treat. Parents should trust the body's natural immune response to fight off the virus. Antibiotics should only be considered if a doctor diagnoses a secondary bacterial infection. Furthermore, never reuse leftover antibiotics from a previous illness, as each prescription is specific to a particular infection and individual.
Do Not Panic Over Loss of Appetite
It is entirely normal for a child's appetite to diminish during a viral illness. Forcing food can increase discomfort and nausea. During this phase, hydration is far more critical than solid food. Dr. Jambagi advises focusing on keeping the child well-hydrated with fluids like water, WHO-recommended Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS), warm soups (avoiding citrus-based ones if the throat is irritated), coconut water, and dal water. The child's appetite will naturally return once they start feeling better. A temporary lack of hunger is not a sign that the illness is worsening.
Prioritise Rest Over a Premature Return to School
Despite the pressure to resume normal routines, Dr. Jambagi emphasises that rest is non-negotiable for recovery. If a child still has a fever, appears excessively tired, weak, or lethargic, or is not drinking or eating properly, they need more time at home. Sending a child back to school too early can prolong their illness and also risk exposing their classmates to the infection. Complete recovery at home ensures they return to their activities with full energy.
Let Go of Routine Stress During Illness
Maintaining strict sleep schedules, meal times, and screen rules becomes incredibly difficult when a child is sick. Parents often worry about instilling bad habits. Dr. Jambagi reassures caregivers that during illness, comfort should override discipline. If your child needs extra cuddles, more supervised screen time, or to sleep next to you for reassurance, it is perfectly acceptable. These are temporary adjustments that will naturally phase out once the child is healthy again. The primary goal is to provide a supportive and comforting environment for recovery.
By avoiding these five common pitfalls, parents can navigate their child's viral infection with greater confidence and ensure a smoother, safer recovery process. Dr. Jambagi's advice serves as a practical guide to effective and compassionate caregiving during childhood illness.
