ASK DR.MOORE May 21, 2004

Dr. Mark Moore, author of the gender selection book Baby Girl or Baby Boy--Choose the Sex of Your Child, answers readers' questions on pregnancy and pediatrics.

Newborn and Sibling Preschooler Colds
Q: I have a 3-year-old preschooler and now a 2-week-old baby. How do we keep the baby from catching the coughs and colds her older sis gets from school?

Dr.Moore: Recognize that the number one diagnosis for doctor’s office visits is URI or upper respiratory infection. The most common spread of these germs is via droplet (coughing) and contact (germs spread by hand to mouth or nose). Teach preschooler to cover their mouth when they cough, wash hands frequently, keep their hands and fingers out of their mouth. A healthy diet and proper sleep will help your child avoid colds that can spread to the little one. I’m sure your pediatrician advised you to limit outdoor exposure of the newborn for the first four to six weeks. This limits the baby’s exposure to other people and the germs they carry. Mama should be careful to do the same. Antibacterial wipes work well on the go, when no soap and water is available.

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Readers may send questions to our email address. This column is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional or medical advice.

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