COVID in Babies: Symptoms and Home Care | Parenting Hub
Most babies and young children have a mild COVID illness, but some need close watching. Here's what to expect and when to call.
Most babies and young children have a mild COVID illness — cold-like symptoms, fever and tiredness. The under-6-month group needs the closest watching.
Common symptoms
- Fever, runny nose, cough, sore throat
- Tiredness, less appetite, unsettled
- Sometimes vomiting, diarrhoea or a brief rash
- Loss of taste/smell — uncommon in babies
- Usually 3–7 days, sometimes longer for cough
Home care
- Plenty of fluids — small frequent feeds
- Rest, cool light clothing if febrile
- Paracetamol or ibuprofen for discomfort (age-appropriate dosing)
- Saline + gentle suction for blocked nose
- Isolate as per current local public-health advice
Things to know
Tell your GP if your child is high risk (heart, lung, immune conditions or under 6 months) — antivirals may be considered. Keep an eye for post-viral complications (rare): persistent fever, rash, abdominal pain — see GP.
When to seek help
- Under 3 months with any fever — ED today
- Fast or laboured breathing, ribs sucking in, blue lips
- Refusing fluids, fewer wet nappies
- Very drowsy, floppy, inconsolable
- Persistent high fever >5 days, rash, red eyes — see GP (rare inflammatory syndrome)
Common questions
Can my baby be vaccinated?
Eligibility and recommendations change — check the current Australian Immunisation Handbook or your GP. Vaccinating parents and carers helps protect babies.