Children are particularly prone to repeated colds, especially if they have problems with their tonsils or adenoids. It may therefore be appropriate to proceed with the anaesthetic and surgery in the presence of mild symptoms, although ideally, one should choose a time when the child is ‘relatively well’. For complex or prolonged surgery, even mild symptoms may lead to postponement, unless the operation is urgent.

If the child is coughing up phlegm, has a high fever, or is lethargic (looking ill, tending to sleep, and refusing food), the operation will most likely be postponed. The period of delay of the operation may be up to six weeks, as studies have shown that the airway remains sensitive. The child is more prone to coughing and gagging and is more likely to develop some swelling in the throat during this period after a cold or the flu.