Do not start an antibiotic without a pediatric clinician examining the baby. In a 10-month-old with a runny nose and lower respiratory symptoms, the common cause is a viral infection such as bronchiolitis, for which antibiotics do not help. The CDC specifically advises that antibiotics should not be used for bronchiolitis. CDC pediatric guidance

A clinician should assess the baby today, especially if “LRTI” was suspected or diagnosed, to distinguish viral bronchiolitis from bacterial pneumonia, ear infection, or another condition. If a bacterial infection is confirmed, the appropriate antibiotic and dose depend on the diagnosis, allergy history, weight, exam findings, and local resistance patterns.

Go to urgent care/emergency now if there is:

While awaiting assessment: offer frequent breastmilk/formula feeds, use saline nose drops followed by gentle suction before feeds/sleep, and avoid OTC cough/cold medicines. Do not give honey before age 1 year. Breathing distress signs in bronchiolitis are outlined by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

For a 10-month-old with a runny nose plus cough/chest symptoms, do not give an antibiotic unless a pediatric clinician has examined the baby and diagnosed a bacterial infection.

Most lower respiratory infections at this age are viral bronchiolitis, often RSV. Antibiotics do not help and can cause diarrhea, rash, allergy, and antibiotic resistance. The CDC bronchiolitis guidance advises against antibiotics for this situation.

If a doctor confirms bacterial pneumonia, amoxicillin is commonly the first-line antibiotic in children without a penicillin allergy, but the exact dose and duration must be calculated from the baby’s weight and clinical examination. Do not use leftover antibiotics, azithromycin, or a pharmacy antibiotic on your own.

Have the baby assessed today if there is fever, fast breathing, wheeze, or reduced feeding.

Go to emergency care now if the baby has:

For nasal blockage: saline nose drops/spray and gentle suction before feeds and sleep; offer frequent breastmilk/formula feeds. Avoid OTC cough/cold medications, and do not give honey before age 1.