Hi Anonymous,
Thanks for your question. Croup generally is a sickness that affects young children (under age 3). It is inflammation of the voice box and windpipe--when small children get colds, their throat area is so tiny that it can get inflamed and partially block the ability to breathe easily. It is as contagious at the common cold or influenza. It takes a full 5-7 days for the infection to run its course even though major symptoms clear by 3-4 days. Most daycare facilities have a rule that your child needs to be fever-free for 24 hours before they can return to school. It's a good rule of thumb to follow in all cases, like playdates, etc. To keep others in the household from getting the virus, use the same caution you would with colds or influenza. Make sure everyone washes hands regularly, disinfect surfaces where the infection could be present (bathrooms, the kitchen, doorknobs, etc.), and get new tooth brushes, wash towels, bedding, and clothing, etc., when major symptoms clear. In severe cases (child's lips appear blue, or has labored breathing when resting), call 911 or go to the emergency room.
For more information, check out this link about Croup: Croup information
Good luck, and hope your little one is better soon.
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Hi Anonymous,
March 3, 2011 - 8:34amThanks for your question. Croup generally is a sickness that affects young children (under age 3). It is inflammation of the voice box and windpipe--when small children get colds, their throat area is so tiny that it can get inflamed and partially block the ability to breathe easily. It is as contagious at the common cold or influenza. It takes a full 5-7 days for the infection to run its course even though major symptoms clear by 3-4 days. Most daycare facilities have a rule that your child needs to be fever-free for 24 hours before they can return to school. It's a good rule of thumb to follow in all cases, like playdates, etc. To keep others in the household from getting the virus, use the same caution you would with colds or influenza. Make sure everyone washes hands regularly, disinfect surfaces where the infection could be present (bathrooms, the kitchen, doorknobs, etc.), and get new tooth brushes, wash towels, bedding, and clothing, etc., when major symptoms clear. In severe cases (child's lips appear blue, or has labored breathing when resting), call 911 or go to the emergency room.
For more information, check out this link about Croup: Croup information
Good luck, and hope your little one is better soon.
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