Viral diseases in children are usually caused by infectious agents against which immunity has not been previously developed. Therefore, it is important to explain: what are the most frequent infections, what is their origin and what can be done to prevent them.

Viruses are small (submicroscopic) infectious agents, even smaller than fungi or bacteria, that depend on the cells of our organism to survive.

In general, the symptomatology of a viral infection is non-specific (low grade fever, general malaise, discouragement/lack of energy, red/watery eyes), however, there are viral illnesses with characteristic symptoms that are easy to diagnose (that do not require confirmation by laboratory tests).

Childhood illnesses caused by external agents are numerous, however, the common cold is a condition that most of the population has encountered. In general, viral infections are not serious, are self-resolving (the body fights them on its own), and include a wide spectrum of symptoms: low-grade fever, cough, pharyngeal pain, mucus, diarrhea, rash, vomiting, among others.

During the growth period, all necessary measures are recommended to strengthen the immune system and prevent infection of potentially serious (and preventable) diseases, such as measles, rubella, mumps, chickenpox, polio (as well as tetanus, tuberculosis), among others.

It is to be expected that, during early childhood, children will develop typical viral illnesses, including respiratory, digestive and skin conditions.

Respiratory problems are a frequent cause of medical consultation, mainly in winter. Although low temperatures are not directly responsible for these pathologies, they do favor their appearance. Cold interferes with the mobility of the cilia (or small hairs) inside the nose, promoting the overgrowth of microorganisms and interfering with the protective barrier of the nasal mucosa.

In general, these winter illnesses are usually a one-time occurrence, however, if not properly managed, there is a risk that they may evolve into chronic diseases or serious health problems in an acute manner. This is fostered by the lower defensive capacity of children, given the lack of previous exposure to a wide range of microorganisms and, therefore, the absence of preformed antibodies.

From the above, arises the need to balance and strengthen the immune system of children from an early age, seeking a better defense, both preventively and actively against infections.