Looking after an ill child

Services for children and young people face challenges, particularly each winter. If you have a child who is unwell this can be a worrying time.

There are lots of things you can do to keep yourself and your child well this winter.

Most infections will be mild, usually caused by a virus, and will be self-limiting. Keep your child well at home by giving them regular does’ of paracetamol and ibuprofen, lots of cuddles and food and drink little and often.

There are times when you do need to visit a hospital. For example, if your child has a seizure or a fit, if they’ve got severe breathing difficulty, if they have a rash that doesn’t blanch when you press it, associated with a high fever, or if you have a bleeding problem that won’t stop with simple first aid.

If you’re not sure what to do there is plenty of advice and help out there. In the first incident you can get advice by ringing 111. Don’t forget your GP surgeries are back open after the bank holiday’s and pharmacists can offer clinical advice on minor health concerns.