A common illness is once again hitting kids hard in Colorado Springs. It is very contagious… and it can be dangerous. Here’s "What's Going Around" in Southern Colorado from our network of health care providers:

Two local doctors report an increase of the croup in their offices… Dr. Alan Garscadden on the East Side of town and Dr. Michael Halenkamp in the Briargate area. Both are with Colorado Springs Health Partners.

Here’s what you need to look out for: the most obvious symptom is a barking cough. It’s going to be worse at night. You may also hear some wheezing. Combine this with a runny nose and fever… and your child is going to be pretty uncomfortable.

But there are some things you can do to help. Have your child take a hot shower. The steam can make them feel better. A humidifier is also helpful. But cold air can also be good. So, if it’s cold out, you can take your child outside for a minute or two.

If your child has trouble breathing at any point, call your doctor immediately or call 911.

Again, this is a very dangerous disease. So keep a close eye on your child. Croup usually lasts around five or six days. And remember – it is very contagious.