What to do if your child has a respiratory illness
For the majority of children, respiratory illnesses (coughs and colds) are not serious and they will soon recover following rest and plenty of fluids.
But some children under two, especially those born prematurely or with a heart condition, can experience more severe illness.
Parents and carers are encouraged to look out for symptoms of a severe infection and to contact a healthcare professional when concerned.
“Respiratory infections in children are very common and most of the time your child can be looked after safely at home, without seeing a doctor."
Dr Anglin has more advice for parents, “Symptoms of severe respiratory infection in children include a dry and persistent cough and finding it hard to breathe – which could be rapid or noisy breathing (wheezing) or drawing in of the muscles below their lower ribs, at their neck, or between their ribs."
When to call your GP or dial NHS 111
“You should contact your GP or call NHS 111 if your child has problems breathing, has taken less than half their usual amount during the last two or three feeds, has had a dry nappy for 12 hours or more, or has a persistent high temperature of 38C or above."
He recommends you have a look at this great NHS health advice for parents and carers booklet. It will help you work out whether your child can be looked after at home with some help from the pharmacist or if they need to be seen by a doctor.
Winter health advice for parents
You can download the booklet below as a PDF.
It is is available in other languages too.
