Half term health advice for parents

Avoid A&E this half term with health advice for parents and carers.

In the half-term week, NHS Cheshire and Merseyside is urging parents to take simple steps to keep their children healthy and if they do become poorly, to get the right care without unnecessary trips to A&E. Many common childhood illnesses can be effectively managed at home or through local NHS services such as community pharmacies.

Managing common childhood conditions

Winter illnesses such as colds, flu, and stomach bugs are common in young children. Look out for early symptoms and you can manage them at home, or with NHS support:

• Coughs and colds are usually mild and can be managed with rest and fluids.
• A raised temperature is a natural response to infection, use children’s paracetamol or ibuprofen as needed. If a child under 3 months has a temperature over 38°C, or if a child over 3 months has a temperature above 39°C, seek medical advice. Your GP can help or NHS 111 when the GP is closed.
• Sore throats are often viral and can be soothed with warm drinks and honey (for children over one years old).
• Ear discomfort, usually following coughs and colds, often clears up on its own and can be relieved with painkillers.
• If a child has an upset stomach, make sure they drink plenty of water and encourage regular handwashing to prevent germs spreading.

NHS Cheshire and Merseyside’s ‘Super Bodies’ campaign has further advice and guidance for parents and carers on the simple things they can do to treat these common ailments at home, as well as helping them to spot the signs of a more serious illness, and knowing when and where to go for medical help.

Where can I go?

NHS services are available to support parents:

• Pharmacy First – Pharmacists can provide expert advice, including treatment, for minor illnesses for children aged 1-17 years, without needing a GP appointment.
• NHS 111 is available 24/7 online or by calling 111 for medical advice and guidance. Always call for a child below the age of 5. Remember it’s free and there are translation services available.
• GP practices – Contact your GP for ongoing health concerns or worsening symptoms.
• Urgent Treatment Centres can treat minor injuries and urgent but non-life-threatening conditions.

Avoiding A&E for non-emergencies

A&E should only be used for serious or life-threatening conditions. Parents are encouraged to use NHS 111 online or by phone for guidance on symptoms.

Keeping children healthy over half-term

To prevent illness and support overall well-being, parents should:

• Encourage regular physical activity and outdoor play to boost overall health.
• Book those regular check-ups including with the dentist and optician.
• Keep up to date with vaccinations, including the flu vaccine where eligible.
• Maintain a healthy diet and sleep routine which will support the immune system.

Parents and carers are also reminded that if a child is unwell, you can visit the Alder Hey online symptom checker for helpful advice on how to treat your child at home, and when to seek further medical help. Go to: www.alderhey.nhs.uk/conditions/symptoms-checker

Dr Fiona Lemmens, local GP and Deputy Medical Director at NHS Cheshire and Merseyside, said: 

For more information, visit the NHS website.