Which of the following is NOT a symptom of croup?

Croup is primarily defined by its characteristic symptoms, which include stridor, a barking cough, and often a low to moderate fever. Stridor occurs due to narrowing of the upper airway, which is common in croup, particularly when the child is active or agitated. The barking cough is typically described as a harsh, dry cough that resembles the sound of a seal barking and is a hallmark sign of the condition.

While a low-grade fever may accompany croup, a high fever is not a typical symptom and further suggests a different underlying condition, often indicating an infection rather than croup.

Wheezing, while not a classic sign of croup, is more associated with lower airway issues, such as asthma or bronchitis, as opposed to the upper airway obstruction seen in croup. Thus, identifying wheezing as a symptom of croup would be incorrect, making it the option that does not fit the standard presentation of this illness.