Vicks VapoRub is a mentholated salve used to relieve coughs and chest congestion. While it is safe and effective in adults and older children, it can be dangerous for children under the age of 2. According to CBC News, doctors at Wake Forest University found that Vicks can increase mucus production and airway inflammation in toddlers, possibly leading to respiratory distress. Thus, it is strongly recommended that parents should never apply Vicks (or any similar generic brand) to toddlers under age 2. However, if your toddler is older than 2, here is how you should apply the salve.
Instructions
1. Rub a generous layer of Vicks on the toddler's chest, throat or feet. Although applying the ointment to the feet is not officially recommended on the product label, many parents of toddlers have high praise for its effectiveness in reducing cough symptoms when applied this way.
2. Cover the medicated area with a warm, dry cloth. This can help prevent clothing from sticking to the ointment and can feel soothing to sick child. If you have applied Vicks to your toddler's feet, put socks on the child.
3. Make sure the toddler's clothing is loose. This is important if you have applied Vicks to the chest or throat. Loose clothing allows the mentholated vapors to waft upward to the mouth and nose.
4. Reapply no more than three times in 24 hours. This is indicated on the product label. If you wish to apply it more frequently, be certain first to ask your child's pediatrician.
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