Use this guide when your baby or child feels hot or unwell, especially during autumn and winter when colds, flu and other bugs spread. Have a digital thermometer, your child's red book or health record and your GP and NHS 111 details to hand. This is general guidance and never replaces urgent medical help.
Step by step
Check the red flags first
Call 999 straight away if your child has a fit for the first time, is hard to wake or floppy, has blue, grey or very pale skin, lips or tongue, is struggling to breathe, or has a rash that does not fade when you press a glass against it. For a baby under 3 months with a temperature of 38C or higher, contact your GP or NHS 111 urgently, or 999 if they seem very unwell. Trust your instincts: if you feel something is seriously wrong, get help now.
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