5 things parents should never do when their child is down with a viral infection

So, whenever a child falls sick with a viral infection, parents get anxious and try doing everything to reduce the fever or subdue the cough. But in those moments of urgency, many caregivers with good intention make mistakes that delay their child's recovery or even worsen the illness. So, to get through such days with more confidence, Dr. Milind Jambagi, Pediatrician, shared an enlightening Instagram video highlighting five important "don'ts" to be kept in mind by every parent when taking care of their ailing child. These reminders are not just useful, but essential in today's age of instant advice and easily accessible medications. Each explanation made by Dr. Jambagi points out just how small missteps can affect a child's process of healing and what, as parents, one could do otherwise to support safe and smooth recovery. Let's take a closer look at each one of them:

Dr. Jambagi warns strongly against giving cold OTC syrups or cough suppressants to children, especially infants and toddlers. These drugs do not cure viral symptoms, and in young children they may be unsafe or produce unwanted side effects. Instead, doctors advise the use of mild treatments like saline nasal spray, saline nebulisation, steam inhalation for older kids, and honey for children over one year. These methods help relieve congestion naturally without adding more chemicals to the child's system.

Many parents think that a prescription for antibiotics will be a quick fix, but for viral infections, antibiotics just won't work. Overusing them raises the risk of antibiotic resistance, which makes future infections harder to treat. For parents, Dr. Jambagi advises trusting the body’s natural immune mechanism to fight the viruses. Antibiotics should be considered only when a doctor confirms a secondary bacterial infection. Never reuse medicines prescribed in past illnesses.

Loss of appetite is very common in viral infections. Forcibly giving food can make them more uncomfortable. Instead, let's focus on hydration, which is much more crucial. Provide:
WaterORS (WHO-recommended)
Warm soups-citrus-based ones should be avoided when irritation of the throat is present
Coconut waterDal waterOnce the child is well, their appetite naturally returns. This is not cause for concern and does not mean the illness is worsening.

Parents are pushed so much to get back into routines, but Dr. Jambagi says rest is essential. If your child: still has fever is too tired is not drinking or eating properly looks weak or lethargic They need time at home. If children return too quickly, their illness can be prolonged and their classmates exposed.

Of course, when children are sick, sleep cycles, eating schedules, and screen rules are very difficult to maintain. And parents often fear that they are teaching them "bad habits." But Dr. Jambagi reassures parents that comfort overrides discipline in such situations. If your child needs more cuddles, screen time supervised, of course, or just sleeping next to you, that's fine. These are all temporary changes that will fade when they are well again.