The common cold and a mild flu don’t usually require a trip to the doctor. But parents should look for warning signs that your child needs a checkup.

Aa doctor visit is a good idea if your child has:

• A fever that’s above 103 degrees Fahrenheit or persists for more than three days.
• Cold or flu symptoms that persist beyond 10 days, or flu symptoms that initially improve but then worsen.
• Wheezing, trouble breathing or skin that appears blue.
• Discharge from the ear or complaints of ear pain, or pain in the abdomen or vomiting.
• Seizures, irritable behavior or difficulty waking.
• Diabetes, heart disease or another chronic condition that gets worse.