Winter in Australia can be a magical time for kids—jumping in puddles, enjoying warm treats and cozying up at home. But as the temperature drops, so does children’s resistance to a range of seasonal illnesses. From sniffles and sore throats to more serious infections like the flu and bronchitis, winter brings a spike in health issues for little ones. Knowing what’s common and when to see a GP can help parents manage their child’s health more confidently during the colder months.
- The Common Cold
Winter’s chill brings a surge in colds among kids, making it a seasonal staple of childhood illnesses. Sneezing, a sore throat, a moderate fever and a runny or plugged nose are some of the symptoms. While colds are usually mild and resolve within a week, children can catch several colds each winter due to their developing immune systems.
When to visit the GP:
- If your child has a high fever that lasts more than 2 days
- Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
- Ear pain or persistent cough
At Balgowlah Village Medical Practice, we provide gentle, child-friendly care and help parents manage cold symptoms effectively, offering guidance on when to treat at home and when further medical attention is needed.
- Influenza (Flu)
While a cold may be a nuisance, the flu is a serious and unpredictable illness that demands attention and caution. It can produce sore throat, cough, body aches, exhaustion and a high temperature. Some children may also experience vomiting or diarrhoea. Complications like ear infections, pneumonia or asthma flare-ups are more likely in children under 5.
Preventionm tip:
Annual flu vaccinations are recommended for all children over 6 months and are free for those at higher risk.
When to visit the GP:
- Instead of becoming better after a few days, the symptoms get worse. • Difficulty breathing, persistent vomiting or dehydration signs
- High fever (especially in babies under 6 months)
Balgowlah Village Medical Practice offers seasonal flu vaccines for children and provides immediate care if your child shows signs of complications.
- Croup
Croup is a viral infection that causes inflammation of the upper airways, leading to a distinctive barking cough, hoarse voice and noisy breathing (stridor). It often worsens at night and is most common in children under 5.
When to visit the GP or emergency department:
- Noisy breathing that doesn’t improve
- Severe coughing fits or struggling to breathe
- High fever with a worsening condition
Our experienced GPs at Balgowlah Village Medical Practice can assess and treat croup and will refer to hospital care if necessary for more serious cases.
- Ear Infections and Sinusitis
Cold weather can also lead to blocked sinuses and ear infections, especially following colds or the flu. Symptoms include ear pain, fussiness, difficulty sleeping, and sometimes fever.
When to visit the GP:
- Persistent ear pain
- Fever with ear drainage or hearing difficulty
- Symptoms lasting more than 48 hours
Your Child’s Health Matters This Winter
Winter illnesses in children can be worrying, but with the right care and support, most are manageable. At Balgowlah Village Medical Practice our team of family-friendly GPs are experienced in paediatric care and offer a calm, compassionate environment to help your child feel comfortable & safe and if you are looking for a Paediatrician near me, we can guide you to the specialists available in the area to look after your child.
Book an appointment today and let us support your family’s health this winter.
Also Read: Winter Health Risks for Seniors: Falls, Flu, and Staying Warm
