Autumn and winter are often accompanied by an increase in cases of respiratory illnesses. This year, however, the advance of these infections began earlier than expected. Data released in April by the InfoGripe bulletin, from the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), showed an increase in cases of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) in several regions of the country in the first months of 2026. Among the most vulnerable groups are children, who tend to suffer most from the intense circulation of respiratory viruses during this period.

According to Dr. Isabela Pires, doctor and postgraduate professor in Pediatrics at Afya Brasília, this happens because children They have a developing immune system and, at the same time, are more exposed in environments such as schools and daycare centers.

“Because they are in contact with other children for periods longer than four hours in the same environment and with less air circulation in the rooms during cold weather, children end up having a greater sensitivity to viruses, especially those with lower immunity”, he explains.

Warning signs

The specialist warns that apparently mild symptoms also deserve attention, as they can evolve quickly in children. “Runny nose, mild cough and tiredness can go from a quadro mild to moderate in a matter of 12 to 24 hours, and may go from home treatment to the need for hospitalization and hospital monitoring”, he warns.

Dr. Isabela Pires highlights that signs such as persistent fever, difficulty breathing, wheezing, excessive drowsiness and refusal to eat require immediate medical evaluation, especially in young children or those with a history of allergies and respiratory diseases.

Conditions that favor respiratory diseases

Dr. Alexandre Martins, doctor and professor of otorhinolaryngology at Afya Centro Universitário Itaperuna, highlights that the cold and dry climate creates even more favorable conditions for the circulation of respiratory viruses.

“In cold weather and low humidity, viruses survive longer in the air and spread more easily. Viral particles remain suspended for longer, increasing the risk of transmission, especially among children”, he states.

According to the expert, the drying out of the roads respiratory it also reduces the body’s natural defenses. “The cold, dry air dries out the mucous membrane of the nose and throat, which acts as the body’s first defense barrier. With this reduced protection, viruses enter more easily. In closed and poorly ventilated environments, the risk is even greater”, he adds.

Simple habits help protect children’s respiratory health

The otolaryngologist adds that simple habits at home can make a difference in reducing transmission. “Ventinate the environments, clean your nose with saline solution, avoiding exposure to cigarettes and maintaining good hydration directly help children’s respiratory health”, he advises.

In addition to paying attention to symptoms, experts reinforce the importance of prevention. For Dr. Isabela Pires, keeping vaccinations up to date is one of the main forms of protection. “Prevention involves keeping vaccinations up to date, both for viral and bacterial diseases. Regular consultations with the pediatrician are also important to assess the need for vitamins or other measures that can help the child’s health”, he highlights.

Doctors highlight that some simple everyday care can help reduce the risk of respiratory diseases in children during the coldest periods of the year:

1. Keep your vaccinations up to date, especially the flu vaccine, when indicated;
2. Encourage hydration by offering water throughout the day, even if the child does not feel thirsty;
3. Teach and reinforce hand hygiene, especially after playing, coughing or before meals;
4. Ventilate environments daily, opening windows even on cold days, and avoid closed spaces without air circulation;
5. Clean your nose with saline solution to help protect and clear the airways;
6. Take care of your diet, prioritizing fruits, vegetables and foods rich in vitamins to strengthen immunity;
7. Pay attention to warning signs, such as persistent high fever, wheezing, ear pain, difficulty breathing, excessive tiredness or prostration, and seek medical evaluation quickly.

By Beatriz Felicio