Allergy or Cold? How to Tell in Singapore’s Hazy Weather

In Singapore, September is the haze season. For many families, this brings not just discomfort, but confusion: “Is my child coming down with something… or is it just the haze again?” This question isn’t uncommon. Kids start sneezing, coughing, or developing a runny nose — and parents are left guessing: Is it a viral cold, or allergies from the haze?

When the haze rolls in, it’s not always clear if your child has a cold or allergies. Know the signs and get peace of mind.

Knowing the difference is important because treatment, prevention and recovery time differ significantly. Here’s a parent’s guide to allergy vs cold in Singapore, especially during haze season.

Why the Haze Matters

Singapore’s haze typically results from transboundary forest fires in the region. The Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) often rises above 100 in September, and the air becomes saturated with fine particles that irritate the nose, throat, eyes and lungs.

According to the Ministry of Health Singapore, haze exposure can worsen respiratory conditions, especially in young children, the elderly, and those with chronic lung disease. During haze periods, doctors in Singapore report an increase in clinic visits for asthma, bronchitis, and allergic rhinitis.

Children are especially vulnerable because:

• They breathe faster

• Their airways are narrower

• They spend more time outdoors in school or play

Cold vs Allergy: What’s Really Going On?

Let’s break it down:

Symptom	Cold (Viral)	Allergies (Environmental)
Runny nose	Often thick, yellow	Clear, watery
Sneezing	Occasional	Frequent, sudden bursts
Fever	Common	Rare
Cough	Yes	Sometimes
Eye symptoms	Rare	Common – itchy, watery eyes
Duration	5–7 days	Can last weeks/months
Timing	Sudden, with sore throat	Gradual; recurs with triggers
Contagious?	Yes	No

What Triggers Allergies in Singapore?

For kids, the most common child allergies in Singapore include:

• Haze particles (PM2.5)

• House dust mites

• Pet dander

• Pollen (seasonal, mild in Singapore)

• Cigarette smoke

• Mould (especially in humid bathrooms)

Not all sniffles mean a cold. Learn to recognise allergy signs and how to manage them at home.

Some children also suffer from allergic rhinitis — a condition where the immune system overreacts to these triggers, leading to persistent sneezing, nasal congestion, and itchy eyes.

“Every September, my daughter would start sneezing and rubbing her eyes in the morning. We thought it was a cold until Dr Jacquelyn at Oaklife explained it was allergy from haze. She gave us a saline spray and antihistamines — no antibiotics needed!”

Home Care Tips for Haze & Allergies

✅ Check the PSI regularly: Keep indoor air clean when PSI >100 (NEA Haze Portal)

✅ Keep windows closed, use air purifiers with HEPA filters

✅ Nasal irrigation: Use a child-safe saline nasal spray twice daily

✅ Daily showers after school to rinse off particles

✅ Hydration is key to thinning mucus and reducing throat irritation

✅ Antihistamines: May be prescribed if allergies are persistent

When to Visit a Doctor

You should consult your GP or paediatrician if:

• Fever lasts more than 2 days

• Cough worsens and affects sleep

• Mucus is thick, green or yellow

• Child complains of ear pain, wheezing, or chest tightness

• No improvement after 5–7 days

FAQs: Cold or Allergies in the Singapore Haze

Q. How do I know if my child’s runny nose is caused by the haze?

A. If the mucus is clear and watery, symptoms appear during high PSI days, and your child is sneezing frequently or rubbing their eyes — it’s likely due to haze-triggered environmental allergies.

Q. Should I send my child to school if they have allergy symptoms?

A. If there’s no fever or thick discharge, your child is likely not contagious and can attend school. Just inform the teacher and monitor symptoms closely.

Q. When is a runny nose a sign of something more serious?

A. If your child has persistent fever, thick yellow/green mucus, or coughing fits, it could be a cold or infection — especially if symptoms worsen after a few days. See a doctor.

Q. Can I give antihistamines to my toddler?

A. Yes, but only under medical supervision. Some antihistamines are not suitable for children under 2. Always consult your GP before administering any medication.

Q. Does haze cause colds?

A. No, colds are caused by viruses, not air pollution. However, haze can irritate the airways and make your child more susceptible to respiratory infections if immunity is already low.

At Oaklife Family Clinic, our doctors can assess whether your child’s symptoms are infection-related or allergic — and help you avoid unnecessary antibiotics. If your child has sudden sneezing, itchy eyes, or a clear runny nose that lasts weeks — it’s likely allergies. But if there’s fever, thick mucus, and a short duration — it’s probably a cold. When in doubt, don’t guess.

 👉 Book an appointment with Oaklife Family Clinic — your friendly, CHAS-approved clinic in Balestier.