Many parents have had this kind of confusion: even if they are careful all the time, the child still suddenly coughs, sneezes, and has a fever. In fact, the "culprit" of the cold may not be "outsiders," but also the "hidden transmitters" at home.

If family members have a cold but show "asymptomatic carriage" or "mild symptoms that go unnoticed," they may still infect children. Additionally, daily interactions within the household can also become a breeding ground for virus transmission.

Transmission of droplets/aerosols in enclosed spaces

If family members cough or sneeze in the living room without covering their mouths or noses with tissues, or fail to wash their hands promptly after covering them with their hands, virus-laden droplets may suspend in the air as aerosols or attach to surfaces such as sofas, coffee tables, toys, etc. When children touch these items and then rub their eyes or dig their noses, they may become infected.

"Indirect contact" on object surfaces

The virus can survive on smooth surfaces like door handles, remote controls, and toys for several hours to several days. If family members come home after being out and touch these items without washing their hands, or if children frequently bite toys, the virus may enter the child's body through the hand-mouth or hand-nose route.

Poor ventilation environment

Long-term use of air conditioning with inadequate ventilation leads to poor air circulation indoors, making it easier for the virus to gather in confined spaces and increasing the risk of infection.

If children get frequent colds while staying at home, parents can adjust in the following ways.

A child's immune system needs to mature gradually through the process of "exposure to pathogens - producing antibodies," and occasional colds are normal physiological phenomena. If a child exhibits symptoms such as persistent high fever (＞3 days), rapid breathing (＞40 times/minute), lethargy, or refusal to eat, medical attention should be sought promptly.