Dr Paula Cowan, GP and Regional Medical Director for Primary Care for NHS England in the North West, has set out simple steps parents can take to keep their children healthy over the Easter holidays, and advice on where to go for medical help if needed.

Dr Cowan said: “When children are unwell or have an accident in the school holidays, it can be a worrying time for parents. With children out and about exploring, there are more chances for minor scrapes or sporting injuries — but there are a variety of NHS services that can offer health advice to parents, without the need for an A&E visit.

“These range from local community pharmacies, where you can access the Pharmacy First scheme for a variety of conditions including earache and impetigo, to your GP practice and the NHS 111 service, which is free, available 24/7 and has a translation service if needed.

“Parents can also call 111 or use the online service at 111.nhs.uk for children aged five and over for quick and convenient medical advice and help accessing the right service.”

Managing common childhood illnesses at home

Many common childhood illnesses and minor injuries can be effectively managed at home or with help from local NHS services such as community pharmacies:

• 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 three months has a temperature over 38°C, or a child over three months has a temperature above 39°C, seek medical advice from your GP or NHS 111 out of hours.
• Sore throats are often viral and can be soothed with warm drinks and honey (for children over one year old).
• Ear discomfort, which often follows coughs and colds, usually 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 the spread of germs.
• For scrapes and grazes, clean the wound and cover it with a plaster or dressing to help prevent infection.

For further advice on children’s symptoms, visit the Alder Hey Children’s Hospital symptom checker at: alderhey.nhs.uk/symptoms-checker

Keeping children well this Easter

Dr Cowan’s top tips for helping children stay healthy over the holidays:

• Encourage regular physical activity and outdoor play to boost overall health.
• Remember to keep children hydrated with plenty of drinks and use sun cream and hats on sunny days.
• Book regular check-ups, including with the dentist and optician.
• Keep vaccinations up to date.
• Maintain a healthy diet and a regular sleep routine to support the immune system.

For more general health information, visit the NHS website at nhs.uk.

• ENDS