Sun, 03 May 2026 04:28:08 +0000

Your Child Could Be in Danger—Croup Spreads Faster Than You Think, Find Out How to Protect Them Every parent wants to keep their child healthy and safe, but one of the most common yet often underestimated illnesses—croup—can spread quickly and pose a real danger, especially to young children. If your child has suddenly started coughing violently, sounding like they’re struggling to breathe, you’re not imagining things: croup is making the rounds fast, and speed is key when it comes to prevention and treatment. ### What Is Croup? Croup is a viral respiratory illness that typically affects children between 6 months and 5 years old. It causes inflammation of the airway—particularly the larynx and trachea—leading to characteristic symptoms: a harsh, barking cough, stridor (a high-pitched wheezing sound when breathing), and sometimes mild fever or hoarseness. While most cases are mild, croup can escalate rapidly, especially at night, causing panic for parents not familiar with the condition.