Our babies and children are so precious to us. When they’re unwell, we worry about what’s wrong and what we can do to help them. We want them to get better as soon as possible.
Childhood immunisations
Make sure that your child’s vaccinations are up to date according the childhood vaccination schedule. The annual ‘flu jab’ is now given to most children through the nasal route and those eligible should receive the vaccine at the earliest opportunity.
If your child has been identified as eligible for the monthly RSV immunisations from October to February to prevent bronchiolitis, please take this up to best protect your child.
You should contact your GP or call NHS 111 if your child is not yet school-aged.
If your child is school-aged and has missed any of their vaccinations, then you can contact our school-aged immunisation team to book a catch up appointment.
Stock up on essentials
Winter can bring a variety of health challenges, from colds and flu to minor injuries. Having a well-stocked medicine cabinet can help you manage these issues effectively.
Pain relief and fever reducers
- Paediatric paracetamol: Effective for pain relief and reducing fever. Available in liquid form for younger children.
- Paediatric ibuprofen: Another option for pain relief, inflammation, and fever. Speak to your pharmacist to ensure it is appropriate for your child’s age.
Cold and flu treatments
- Saline nasal drops: Help to clear blocked noses, especially in babies and young children.
- Vapour rub for children: Helps to ease nasal congestion and soothe a cough.
- Children’s cough syrup: Choose based on whether your child has a dry or chesty cough.
Digestive aids
- Oral rehydration salts for children: Useful for rehydration after diarrhoea or vomiting.
- Mild laxatives: Suitable for children, to relieve constipation. Always consult a GP before use.
First aid supplies
- Children’s plasters and bandages: For minor cuts and injuries, in fun designs to make them more appealing.
- Antiseptic cream or spray: Prevents infection in cuts and grazes.
- Digital thermometer: Essential for monitoring your child’s temperature.
- Tweezers: Useful for removing splinters.
Miscellaneous items
- Teething gel: Helps to soothe teething pain.
- Nappy rash cream: Essential for babies to treat and prevent nappy rash.
- Sun cream: Even in winter, it’s good to have on hand for sunny days to protect your child’s skin.
Additional advice
Always read the label and take medications as directed. If you have any questions or concerns about over-the-counter medicines for your child, speak to your community pharmacist. They can provide valuable advice on the appropriate use of these products.
You should always store medicines out of reach of children, ideally in a high, lockable cupboard.
Common childhood illnesses and problems
The Little Orange Book contains advice and tips on how to manage common illnesses and problems that babies and young children often experience in the first 5 years of their lives. It also has information on more serious conditions, what to look out for and how to get help.
This book was originally produced by Newcastle Gateshead Clinical Commissioning Group with invaluable help from GPs, Health Visitors, Practice Managers and Staff, Pharmacists, Paediatricians, Children’s Nurses and Parents and Carers.