Parents can access a wide range of free advice and information if their child becomes unwell this winter
With common winter illnesses on the rise among young people, Herefordshire’s health and care organisations are encouraging parents to familiarise themselves with the local healthcare options available before they need them.
It’s not too late to protect yourself and younger children this winter by taking up the flu and COVID-19 vaccinations for those eligible.
Contact your GP practice for information, visit the local information webpage at www.herefordshiregeneralpractice.co.uk/for-patients/vaccination-clinics or book online at www.nhs.uk
Knowing where best to go when your child is unwell helps ensure you get help quicker and keeps services available to those who need them most.
Many coughs and colds can be treated effectively at home, without the need to seek medical advice. Anyone with concerns about winter illnesses is encouraged to speak to their local pharmacist, who can provide expert advice on a range of minor ailments such as coughs, colds and tummy troubles.
Parents can also access advice and information on a range of illnesses via the HANDI App, which is endorsed by Wye Valley NHS Trust and county GPs.
Free to download, the app provides expert information on how best to manage the six most common childhood illnesses, diarrhoea, vomiting, high temperatures, chestiness, newborn problems, and stomach pain. The app can be downloaded from the App Store (Apple) and Google Play Store (Android).
Nationally, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has reported higher than usual cases of scarlet fever, an illness caused by bacteria called group A streptococci or also known as Strep A.
The first signs of scarlet fever can be flu-like symptoms, including a high temperature, a sore throat and swollen neck glands (a large lump on the side of your neck). A rash appears 12 to 48 hours later. It looks like small, raised bumps and starts on the chest and tummy, then spreads. The rash makes your skin feel rough, like sandpaper.
Matt Pearce, Director of Public Health for Herefordshire, said:
“Whilst Strep A infections are usually mild, they can on rare occasions lead to a more serious infection called Invasive Group A Strep (iGAS).
“Parents should trust their judgement when their child is poorly. If they believe that their child has scarlet fever or seems seriously unwell, please contact NHS 111 or their GP.”
Parents and carers who are unsure where best to access help and treatment are encouraged to contact NHS111 by calling 111, or if their child is over the age of 5 using the online service via 111.nhs.uk.
Parents should call 999 or go to A&E if their child is having difficulty breathing – making grunting noises or their tummy is sucking under their ribs, their child’s skin, tongue or lips are blue or their child is floppy and will not wake up or stay awake. For more information visit www.nhs.uk
The UK Health Protection Agency has created a webpage which contains more information about Group A Strep. Follow this link to visit the site.