Winter is here, and we know how worrying it can be when your child is unwell, which is why we’ve launched our Children’s Health Matters campaign. Our aim is to equip you with the information and resources you need to keep your child healthy and safe this winter.
What to do if your child is unwell
Coughs, colds, or viruses are common among young children and may result in your child experiencing breathing difficulties. Although it can take 2-3 weeks for children to get better, these illnesses can often be treated at home.
Treat at home
Treat children at home if they are:
- Taking in more than half of normal feeds, and
- Making wet nappies, or
- Their high temperature lasts less than 5 days.
Call 111
If symptoms get worse, then it’s time to ask for help. Call 111 as your first point of contact, if your child is:
- Taking in less than half of normal feeds, or
- Their temperature is higher than 38 degrees C and lasts more than 5 days.
Visit A&E
The Emergency Department is for life-threatening symptoms. Call 999 or go to Accident & Emergency when your child has:
- Long pauses between breathing, or
- Severe difficulties or is gasping for breath, or
- Their tongue or lips go blue, or grey or white on brown or black skin.
Visit the Mid and South Essex Integrated Care System website for more information on child health and how you can get the best help and support when they are unwell.
It is packed with essential information, it’s your go-to resource for keeping your family healthy this winter and beyond.
