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The child’s symptoms of a bark-like cough and runny nose indicate laryngotracheobronchitis, commonly known as croup. This condition typically arises from a viral infection that leads to inflammation in the upper airways, specifically affecting the larynx and trachea. The characteristic cough associated with croup is often described as similar to the sound of a seal barking, which aligns with the symptoms presented.

In addition to the cough, the runny nose is associated with the initial stages of the illness, as croup often follows a respiratory infection where nasal congestion is prominent. The inflammation can also cause difficulty breathing and stridor, which may occur when the child is restless or agitated. The hallmark signs and symptoms of croup, along with the age group it usually affects (typically children aged 6 months to 3 years), make this condition the most likely diagnosis in this scenario.

Other conditions, such as pneumonia and bronchiolitis, present differently—pneumonia usually involves more systemic signs like fever and difficulty breathing with a productive cough, while bronchiolitis is characterized by wheezing and difficulty breathing more than a bark-like cough. Asthma can show similar symptoms but is less likely to present with