It can be stressful for parents and carers when a child is not well.
Often, the illness is not serious and the child can be treated safely at home, or with support from a GP, pharmacist, or health visitor.
This advice has been designed by a team of paediatricians to help you care for your sick child. It will help you identify when an illness is minor, and when it is serious. We recommend treating minor illnesses at home, where your child will be most comfortable.
What should I do for…
- Coughs and colds
- Diarrhoea and vomiting
- Fever (high temperature)
- Ear problems
- Rashes
- What should I keep in my first aid kit?
If you are worried about your child’s health, or think there might be a serious problem, trust your instincts and call the non-emergency NHS phone number 111 for advice. Below we have listed signs that suggest medical advice or contact may be needed: