Sandra, ORal rehydration solutions are not neccessary for breastfed infants with colds. These solutions are used in very severe diarrhea and vomiting, to replace fluids and a few electrolytes when children are in danger of dehydration. This most commonly occurs with formula fed children. Breastfed infants with diarrhea or vomiting should be maintained on the breast, according to Ruth Lawrence, MD in her book Breastfeeding a Guide for the Medical Profession, because the low renal solute load of breastmilk does not predispose to dehydration. Giving oral rehydration solutions to an infant with a cold would reduce the calories and immunological resources this child takes in from breastmilk. If baby is unhappy, counsel mom to nurse more frequently. Many babies with nasal congestion are better able to breathe at the breast, and are better able to breastfeed than bottle feed. Many ill breastfed children nurse frequently to constantly during an illness...they know what they need. Catherine Watson Genna, IBCLC nyc [log in to unmask]