Revised: 29 May 2013

Safety Information

Use of Cough and Cold Medicines in Children - New advice

Warning signs that a child has a serious infection

• Your child is not eating or drinking.
• Your child sucks in their chest when breathing.
• Your child is breathing very fast.
• Your child is very drowsy or floppy and does not wake easily.
• Your child has a high fever.
• Your child is vomiting.
• Your child has a stiff neck.
• Your child dislikes bright lights.
• Your child's lips are blue around the edges.
• Your child momentarily stops breathing.
• Your child has a rash or spots that do not fade under pressure (glass test).

If your child stops breathing or is turning blue, or has a rash or spots that do not fade under pressure you should seek urgent medical attention. If your child has any of the other symptoms above you should take them to the doctor as soon as possible.