University of Edinburgh study finds saline nasal drops shorten children's colds by 2 days and may reduce transmission.

A University of Edinburgh study presented at the European Respiratory Society Congress found that saline nasal drops can shorten colds in children by an average of two days and may reduce transmission to family members. Involving 407 children, those using the 2.6% salt solution experienced symptoms for six days compared to eight days for usual care. Parents are encouraged to make the drops at home, as they are not available over-the-counter.