Chickenpox is a very common illness in children and while it can cause little ones to be upset, uncomfortable and irritable, thankfully it usually eases and goes away on its own in one or two weeks, without any complications. 

Many adults will be able to remember what it was like to have chickenpox as a child and might still have the scars on their body today. Decades after we were all kids, it’s still a really common and contagious disease among young children. Children under 10 are most likely to get the spotty, itchy rash and, according to the NHS, it can be particularly virulent between the months of March and May. 

We consulted GP and founder of Say GP Dr Semiya Aziz (MRCGP), NHS GP Dr Hana Patel (FRCGP) and GP Dr Alexis Missick (MRCGP), to bring you advice on what to do if your child comes down with chickenpox and to answer all of your most commonly asked questions about the illness. 

The information in this article is for general purposes only and does not take the place of medical advice. It is essential to be guided by your GP and take note of official NHS advice. You should immediately seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or you are concerned about your child. If you are unsure, concerned about their symptoms or a rash that has appeared, then it is crucial to seek personalised advice from a doctor as soon as possible. 

What is chickenpox?

Chickenpox is a viral infection that is spread quickly and easily between children. It often starts with a fever a few days before the spots appear. Your little one will then have red, itchy spots all over their body, which turn into fluid-filled blisters. They will eventually scab over and fall off after a week or two. It's considered a mild condition, but anyone who's ever suffered it will know, the spots can be really irritating and your child is likely to feel uncomfortable.

Dr Patel says, "Chickenpox is very itchy and can make children feel miserable, even if they do not have many spots."

New spots can continue to appear for 3 to 5 days and your child may also have a temperature, loss of appetite and just be generally off colour for a few days. Your child may be particularly miserable if they have spots inside their mouth, eyelids or on their genitals.

The spots will soon start to turn to fluid-filled blisters which can be really itchy and sore. These blisters will gradually start to go crusty and form a scab. 

What to do if you child gets chickenpox

If you discover that your child has chickenpox, make sure to tell their school or nursery immediately. Newborn babies, pregnant women and people with a lowered immune system should not be exposed to the illness, so try to keep your child indoors and away from anyone at risk.

The NHS says chickenpox can spread to other people from 2 days before the spots appear until all of the spots have formed scabs. It may take up to 3 weeks after coming into contact with an infected person for spots to appear on your child’s body. So if your little one comes down with chickenpox, try to retrace your steps and let people you have come into contact with know, especially pregnant people, anyone with a newborn baby and anyone that has a weakened immune system. 

Try not to let your child itch their spots as they’re at risk of scarring. Dr Missick also recommends cutting your child’s fingernails and putting socks on their hands at night to help stop them itching in their sleep. 

Consult your GP if you have any questions about chickenpox or aren’t sure if your child definitely has it.

How to soothe chickenpox symptoms

Sadly, when it comes to chickenpox, it’s really just a case of sitting it out and waiting for the symptoms to ease. However, Dr Missick recommends, "using wet or cold compresses, bathing in cool water, or using oatmeal bath products" to help reduce the itching.

When you do bathe your child, Dr Patel advises that you should make sure to "pat your child’s skin dry" instead of rubbing, as rubbing can aggravate the blisters.

Your child may have problems sleeping and eating so make sure you let them get plenty of rest and give them plenty of fluids and soft food, especially if they have spots in their mouths. Cuddles and sofa time may be in order for a few days. 

"Cooling creams or gels from the pharmacy can also help to soothe blisters," adds Dr Patel. Stephanie Lowe, GoodToKnow’s Family Editor, used PoxClin CoolMousse when her son had chickenpox and found that it helped. "PoxClin was a life saver when my three-year old got chickenpox," Stephanie says. "We'd been dabbing on calamine lotion which was taking forever and was sticky. This cooling mousse just smoothed on super easy. And as it didn't stain my son could 'help' me put it on too." Check with your pharmacist or doctor first about what creams or gels might be suitable for your child before purchasing.

Dr Patel recommends "Drinking plenty of fluid to avoid dehydration and taking paracetamol to help with pain and discomfort." One of the most important things to know about children who have chickenpox is that you do not give any aspirin or ibuprofen-based painkillers or medicines. The NHS says ibuprofen should not be used to ease the symptoms because it’s not safe for treatment of chickenpox.

Ways to soothe chickenpox at a glance:

• Wet or cold compresses
• Bathing in cool water and patting dry skin afterwards
• Using oatmeal bath products
• Plenty of rest
• Drink lots of fluids
• Cooling creams or gels from the pharmacy

Can I send my child to nursery or school if they have chickenpox?

The short answer to this is no. Chickenpox is very contagious, so it’s important your child reduces their contact with other people while they have the illness. 

Chickenpox can be caught by simply being in the same room as someone with it. It is also passed on through coughs or sneezes and through direct contact with the blisters or by touching things that have fluid from the blisters on them.

Dr Patel states, "If children have chickenpox, they will need to stay away from school or nursery until all the spots have formed a scab. This is usually five days after the spots appeared."

How long is chickenpox contagious and when can a child return to school or daycare?

Someone with chickenpox can start spreading the illness one to two days before the first spots appear and then they will be contagious until all of their spots have scabbed over. 

As chickenpox spots can appear at different times, and new spots can appear while others are becoming blisters or forming a scab, you will need to wait until the spots have stopped appearing and all of the spots have formed a scab before your child can return to school, nursery or daycare. This will be around 5 days after the last batch of new spots appeared, but of course, every case is different.

Nurseries and schools will have their own restrictions when it comes to chickenpox so it’s always worth checking with them after getting advice from your GP.

Should I take my child to the doctor?

Chickenpox usually gets better by itself without needing to see a GP. 

However, while for most children chickenpox may mean a week off nursery or school, in very rare instances there can be complications such as bacterial infections or pneumonia. If you’re worried about your child then you should contact your GP immediately. 

The NHS says you should get advice from your doctor or call NHS 111 if:

• Your child becomes dehydrated 
• The skin around the blisters is hot, painful and red
• The symptoms get worse 
• You're pregnant and have not had chickenpox before, or you're not sure, and you've been near someone with chickenpox
• You have a weakened immune system and have been near someone with chickenpox
• You think your newborn baby has chickenpox

As a parent, you know your child better than anyone and you should always trust your own judgement. If you are at all in doubt or have concerns about your child, you should contact your GP or call the NHS on 111. In a medical emergency, call 999.

Chickenpox and pregnancy

Chickenpox can be dangerous for people who are pregnant or have a weakened immune system. If you're pregnant or have given birth in the last week and think you might have been exposed to chickenpox, see your GP straight away and don't wait until spots have appeared to make an appointment.

Dr Aziz recommends keeping a child with chickenpox away from anyone who is pregnant because chickenpox "may pose a risk to the developing foetus" or make the baby very ill when it’s born. Dr Aziz says, "Chickenpox can result in congenital abnormalities such as defects of the limbs, eyes and organs. The neonate may also suffer complications during birth or after delivery if the mother develops chickenpox."

Dr Patel explains, "If you're pregnant and you haven't had chickenpox, or you're not sure if you have, avoid contact with anyone who has chickenpox or shingles. If you do come into close contact with someone who has chickenpox or shingles, get medical advice immediately."

She adds that, "A GP can do a blood test to check if you're immune to the chickenpox virus. If you are not, they may recommend antiviral medicine to reduce the risk of infection, and make the infection milder and not last as long."

Other precautions to take with chickenpox

Chickenpox can be very dangerous for newborn babies whose immune systems are still developing and also for children and adults with a weakened immune system.

Dr Aziz says chickenpox can also be dangerous for "individuals who have an impaired immune system, such as those undergoing chemotherapy or organ transplant recipients."

If your child has chickenpox make sure they do not go near newborn babies, or anyone who is pregnant or has a weakened immune system. 

If you have a weakened immune system and have been near someone with chickenpox or you think your newborn baby has chickenpox, contact your GP immediately and seek urgent medical advice. 

The NHS say, "Some people may be able to take medicine to prevent complications. It needs to be started within 24 hours of the spots appearing."

Can chickenpox be prevented?

As chickenpox is hugely contagious (around 90 per cent of people who've never had it will develop it if put in contact with the virus) it's very hard to prevent your child from contracting it. The easiest way to try and avoid your child getting chickenpox is to keep your children away from anyone who has it and is still in the contagious phase of the infection. 

A chickenpox vaccine is also available but it’s not currently given as part of the UK’s national childhood vaccination programme. You can choose to get the vaccine privately, and it’s given as two doses, around 4 to 8 weeks apart and will cost around £60 per dose. The vaccine, which can be given to children aged one and over, is thought to be more than 90% effective and the UK’s Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) has recommended that it’s added to the country’s vaccination schedule. 

Professor Sir Andrew Pollard, chair of the JCVI, says, "We now have decades of evidence from the USA and other countries showing that introducing this programme is safe, effective and will have a really positive impact on the health of young children."

Answers to your frequently asked questions about chickenpox

The information on GoodTo.com does not constitute medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. Although GoodtoKnow consults a range of medical experts to create and fact-check content, this information is for general purposes only and does not take the place of medical advice. Always seek the guidance of a qualified health professional or seek urgent medical attention if needed.

Our experts

Hand, foot and mouth disease symptoms are usually pretty easy to spot in children because, as its name suggests, the rash that it causes is normally confined to a person’s hands and feet. 

Although hand, foot and mouth does not look very pleasant and the mouth ulcers it causes can be very painful for your child, thankfully the illness usually doesn’t require a trip to the doctors and will clear up on its own in up to 10 days.

We spoke to Dr Stuart Sanders, GP at The London General Practice, Consultant Practitioner Dr Hussain Ahmad and NHS GP Thuva Amuthan about what to do if your child catches hand, foot and mouth; and they answered some of the most frequently asked questions about the disease, including what to do if you encounter hand, foot and mouth while pregnant.

The information in this article is for general purposes only and does not take the place of medical advice. It is essential to be guided by your GP and take note of official NHS advice. You should immediately seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or you are concerned about your child. If you are unsure, concerned about their symptoms or a rash that has appeared, then it is crucial to seek personalised advice from a doctor as soon as possible. As a parent, you know your child better than anyone and you should always trust your own judgement. If you are at all in doubt and you're worried about your child's symptoms, you should contact your GP.

What is hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD)?

"Hand, foot and mouth disease is caused by a virus. It is a common illness in childhood," NHS GP Thuva Amuthan says. Hand, foot and mouth disease is also very contagious, which is why it often spreads quickly in nurseries and schools.

GP Dr Stuart Sanders explains that HFMD, "is a minor self limiting disease" which means that it is one that usually resolves on its own and will not have a long-term or harmful effect on a person's health.

HFMD usually starts with symptoms similar to a common cold such as a sore throat or a temperature, as explained by Dr Sanders: "it starts with a temperature that we would associate with most children's infections. They then develop spots on their hands and feet which do not cause much trouble, but there are blisters in the mouth which can be painful and make feeding or eating difficult."

The NHS states that hand, foot and mouth, "usually gets better on its own in 7 to 10 days."

What should you do if your child contracts hand, foot and mouth?

If your child comes down with hand, foot and mouth, Dr Sanders advises firstly that you should, "keep them at home until they have recovered and treat their symptoms."

He also states that it is important to make sure that your child stays hydrated, even if they don’t feel like eating or drinking, "the most important thing is to make sure that they have an adequate fluid intake so they do not become dehydrated." Children can often stop eating and drinking because their mouths are so sore. Try getting them to take sips of water through a straw if possible and avoid acidic drinks, like fruit juices. If you think your child is dehydrated and they are not passing urine as often as usual, you should contact your GP.

You should always inform your childcare provider immediately if your child has had hand, foot and mouth. This is so that they can let other parents know that there has been a case in the setting.

Consultant Practitioner Dr Hussain Ahmad explains that while you usually don’t need to see your GP for hand, foot and mouth, you should make an appointment if your child doesn’t start to get better after 7-10 days, "You don't need to see a doctor if your child has hand, foot and mouth as it should pass on its own within a week. If your child is still suffering after 10 days or so, you should book an appointment with your GP to make sure it isn't something else."

You should also make an appointment to see your GP straight away if your child has a very high temperature, or feels hot and shivery. As a parent, you know your child better than anyone and you should always trust your own judgement. If you are at all in doubt and you're worried about your child's symptoms, you should contact your GP.

How to soothe a child with hand, foot and mouth disease

Dr Amuthan says, "Hand, foot and mouth disease gets better by itself in 7 to 10 days in most cases. Rest, good hydration, and a soft diet are essential to recovery. Simple analgesia (medication that acts to relieve pain) like paracetamol can help with the pain and temperature."

Dr Sanders agrees that you can, “give them Paracetamol or Ibuprofen liquid, dose as appropriate to their age and size, if the mouth ulcers or the raised temperature is causing distress," but he also cautions, "do not give aspirin [to children] under 16 years." Dr Sanders also suggests, "soothing gels such as Bonjela (paediatric preparations)" to help soothe the mouth ulcers caused by hand, foot and mouth. Ask a pharmacist for advice about which treatments and pain relief options are suitable for children. 

While your child is at home and feeling unwell Dr Ahmad also recommends, "Keep your child hydrated and comfortable while they get over the worst of their symptoms. They might not feel like eating much, so try not to worry about providing a balanced diet and instead let them eat when they feel like it and whatever they feel they can manage. Hand, foot and mouth blisters can be quite painful, so avoid acidic food, like oranges or tomatoes."

Dr Sanders also recommends, "easy to eat foods such as ice cream and yoghurt" to help your child eat while they are uncomfortable and may not feel like eating much. 

How long is a child contagious with hand, foot and mouth and how do you know when they are no longer contagious?

A child with hand, foot and mouth disease is actually most contagious just before their symptoms appear, right up until they’re feeling better. The most important time to keep your child at home and away from others who might catch the disease is when they are feeling unwell and while they have a temperature. 

Dr Amuthan says, "Coughs, sneezes, poo and any fluid from blisters can easily pass it onto others. You can be contagious a few days before you develop any symptoms. You are most contagious in the first 5 days. Children should stay at home whilst they are feeling unwell."

Dr Sanders states, "A child is contagious until their temperature is normal, approximately between two to four days."

Dr Ahmad explains, "As a general rule, once the high temperature has passed and blisters have dried up, the risk of spreading hand, foot and mouth is reduced significantly."

"You are usually most contagious for about one week, but the virus can remain in the body and be passed on for weeks after symptoms have disappeared, so you need to be cautious with who you see and how much contact your child has with them," Dr Ahmad adds.

"You should keep your child away from other children and pregnant women until they're no longer contagious."

When can a child with HFMD return to school or daycare?

"Children with HFMD can return to school or daycare when their temperature is normal and the child is feeling better," Dr Sanders states. However, he adds that schools or daycare may have specific rules or protocols for hand, foot and mouth and so you should check with them first before your child returns. Some nurseries and schools may ask that children do not return until the rash has completely gone, for example. 

NHS advice states that you should keep your child off school or nursery while they're feeling unwell. But as soon as they're feeling better, they can go back to school or nursery. There's no need to wait until all the blisters have healed.

Can adults catch hand, foot and mouth from a child and do parents need to quarantine if their child has HFMD?

Hand, foot and mouth disease is highly contagious and it is possible for a parent to get it from a child. However, Dr Sanders says this happens, "very unusually because they will probably have immunity from previous exposure." He also told us that, "there is no need to quarantine" if your child has HFMD.

Dr Ahmad says, "Adults can catch HFMD from their child, but it's less common, so you shouldn't let it stop you from taking proper care of your child and providing comfort when they need it. As long as you regularly wash your hands and avoid sharing drinks or food, you would be very unlucky to catch it!"

How to avoid parents and siblings catching hand, foot and mouth from an infected child

According to information from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), "spread within families is common." However, it also adds that some adults are immune following previous exposure during childhood and Dr Sanders also told us that it, “would be unusual” for parents to catch HFMD from an infected child. 

Nevertheless, as it is possible for adults to catch HFMD and it is very contagious amongst children (putting siblings at risk of catching it from an infected child) there are ways to try and reduce the risk of hand, foot and mouth spreading through your household. 

The best way to reduce the risk of getting hand, foot and mouth is through good hygiene practices. These include:

• Follow the best hygiene practices of washing your hands often with soap and water
• Use tissues to trap germs when you cough or sneeze and disposing of them immediately
• Do not share towels or household items like cups, cutlery or crockery 
• Disinfect toys after use and limit the sharing of toys between children while a child is still infectious 
• Wash soiled bedding and clothing on a hot wash

Dr Sanders also adds that in some circumstances, "isolation of the [infected child] would be important if either parent is immunocompromised," and you should also keep your child away from pregnant women until they're no longer contagious.

Do you need to take extra precautions if you are pregnant?

Catching hand, foot and mouth while pregnant should be avoided if possible. 

"Pregnant women should be cautious around HFMD because the fever associated with it can cause complications at the beginning and end of pregnancy," cautions Dr Ahmad. 

Dr Amuthan explains, "It is best to avoid close contact with anyone that has the disease if you are pregnant. Although very rare, having a high temperature in your first three months can lead to a miscarriage. Your baby can be born with a mild form of the disease if you get it just before giving birth."

If you're pregnant and get hand, foot and mouth disease, you should make an appointment to see your GP straight away. 

Doctors answer your frequently asked questions about hand, foot and mouth disease

The information on GoodTo.com does not constitute medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. Although GoodtoKnow consults a range of medical experts to create and fact-check content, this information is for general purposes only and does not take the place of medical advice. Always seek the guidance of a qualified health professional or seek urgent medical attention if needed.

Our experts

Slapped cheek syndrome, or ‘fifth disease’, is a relatively minor condition that sounds much worse than it actually is. However, although in children this common virus is considered mild and they are expected to make a complete recovery, GPs warn that there are extra precautions you need to take if you’re pregnant. 

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) describes slapped cheek syndrome as a viral infection caused by parvovirus B19. It is sometimes also informally called 'cheek slap rash' or 'face slap disease' and can be referred to as the 'fifth disease' because historically it was classified as the fifth of the classic childhood skin rashes, after measles, scarlet fever, rubella and Dukes' disease. 

It is usually defined by a red rash on children’s cheeks, which is where the virus gets its name. Slapped cheek can be difficult to spot, or is easily confused with other illnesses, as other symptoms of the virus are similar to coughs and colds in babies and children, such as a high temperature, runny nose, and sore throat.

We spoke to three GPs; Dr Stuart Sanders, GP at The London General Practice, NHS GP Dr Thuva Amuthan and GP Dr Chun Tang, for advice on what to do if your child contracts slapped cheek, and they answered your most common questions as well as sharing important advice on extra precautions to take if you are pregnant.

The information in this article is for general purposes only and does not take the place of medical advice. It is essential to be guided by your GP and take note of official NHS advice. You should immediately seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or you are concerned about your child. If you are unsure, concerned about their symptoms or a rash that has appeared, then it is crucial to seek personalised advice from a doctor as soon as possible. 

What is slapped cheek syndrome?

"Slapped cheek syndrome is a minor children's infection in which they start with a temperature, followed by a snuffy running nose," GP Dr Stuart Sanders explained to GoodToKnow. "One or two days later they have red cheeks, right and left, which has the appearance of having been slapped. The rash on the face can be followed by a generalised blotchy skin eruption. It is usually a very mild disease."

On the symptoms that you can expect your child to experience if they contract slapped cheek syndrome, NHS GP Dr Thuva Amuthan explains that they, "may feel unwell for the first few days with a temperature, runny nose, sore throat and headache."

According to Pall Mall Medical cases of slapped cheek syndrome are most common in children between the ages of four and 12. However, babies and adults can also get slapped cheek syndrome and although harmless for most, it can be serious if you are pregnant.

The NHS advises that you should see a GP if you think you have slapped cheek syndrome and you are pregnant, have a blood disorder or have a weakened immune system. Seek urgent medical treatment if you think you or your child has slapped cheek syndrome and also has very pale skin, shortness of breath, extreme tiredness or has fainted. 

The slapped cheek rash

The rash caused by slapped cheek syndrome is usually the symptom that most parents will notice first. In general, a slapped cheek rash is not painful.

The NHS says, “It's hard to avoid spreading slapped cheek syndrome because most people do not know they have it until they get the rash. You can only spread it to other people before the rash appears.” 

GP Dr Chun Tang told GoodToKnow: “The rash may appear at first as a bright red rash on one or both cheeks and will generally just remain there. In some cases, it can also spread to the rest of the body. A few days after appearing on the face, a lighter coloured rash can appear on the chest and tummy, back, the arms, the legs, the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet.”

It can often be frightening when a rash appears on your child, but unlike the more worrying meningitis rash, a slapped cheek rash will fade if pressure is applied to it. (You can always do the glass test recommended by Meningitis Now to test this.)

NHS GP Dr Thuva Amuthan explains: "Our biggest worry with anyone with a temperature and rash is, of course, meningitis. If when pressed against a tumbler the rash does not disappear or you feel unwell, you must seek urgent medical attention. Many other viruses can also cause a similar rash."

The NHS also has a helpful guide to rashes in babies and young children. However, as a parent, you know your child better than anyone and you should always trust your own judgement. If you are at all in doubt about the rash or have concerns about your child, you should contact your GP or call the NHS on 111. If your child is unresponsive or floppy, call 999.

What should you do if your child contracts slapped cheek?

Firstly, try not to worry if your child contracts slapped cheek. GP Dr Tang shared this reassurance: “Generally slapped cheek syndrome is not an infection to worry about. So you usually don’t need to see a GP. The majority of people who get the virus don’t even know they’ve had it and it clears up without leaving any complications. 

However, Dr Tang did add the following advisory, “If you are pregnant, have a blood disorder, or a weakened immune system, you should always see your doctor if you suspect you’ve caught the virus.”

If your child contracts slapped cheek, the best thing to do is the same as for many other viral infections: make sure your child gets plenty of rest and drinks lots of fluids to avoid dehydration. 

"If your child contracts slapped cheek, keep them at home and ensure an adequate fluid intake," advises Dr Sanders. 

If your little one has a high temperature, Dr Sanders also says that you can give them children’s paracetamol or ibuprofen to bring it down. “If the raised temperature or anything else is causing distress, give them Paracetamol liquid, dose as appropriate to their age and size." Dr Sanders also warns, "Do not give aspirin [to children] under 16 years."

Unlike bacterial diseases, viral diseases such as slapped cheek, chickenpox, measles, and shingles, are not treatable with antibiotics. This means that while you can take treatment to relieve some of the symptoms, you must rely on your body to fight the actual infection.

While viral diseases, such as slapped cheek syndrome, are sometimes uncomfortable, they normally do not cause serious issues for healthy people.

However, if you or your child is at risk of complications from viral diseases, for example from a chronic disease or a suppressed or compromised immune system, you should call your GP or the NHS on 111. This is also the case if you are pregnant.

If you still feel unsure about what is the best treatment, check with your pharmacist or doctor.

What causes slapped cheek syndrome and is it contagious?

Slapped cheek syndrome is caused by a viral infection and Dr Stuart Sanders told GoodToKnow that yes, slapped cheek is contagious, “Slapped cheek syndrome has been identified as being caused by a Parvovirus B19 and therefore the disease is contagious.”

Slapped cheek syndrome typically spreads via saliva and mucus and so can be spread in the air when we cough, laugh, and sneeze. It can also be passed by saliva droplets in the air when we are in close contact with others. That’s why when children get it, it can spread very rapidly through a nursery, classroom, or school.

“Slapped cheek syndrome is only contagious before the rash appears. So it often spreads before it’s apparent that a child has it,” says Dr Tang.

To reduce the risk of spreading slapped cheek syndrome:

• Wash hands often with warm water and soap
• Use tissues to trap germs from coughing or sneezing
• Throw away used tissues immediately 

Parvovirus B19 is similar to the parvovirus that affects cats and dogs. However, it cannot spread from human to animal or vice versa.

Can a child go to school or nursery with slapped cheek?

Whether or not your child can go to school or nursery with slapped cheek depends on the stage of the virus. 

In the early stages of the virus, before the rash has appeared, Dr Sanders advises that children should be kept at home to prevent the spread of the disease, “Slapped cheek is an infectious disease and, as such, an infected child should not go to school or nursery until they have made a full recovery.”

However, once the rash develops children should no longer be infectious, and so at that stage they do not need to stay at home. The NHS advice on the matter states, "You do not have to stay off work or school after the rash appears," but they also advise, "Let the school or teacher know if your child has slapped cheek syndrome."

So, once the rash shows and it is no longer infectious, children can go to school or nursery. However, you should make your child’s teacher aware, so that they can alert other parents that there is a case in the class.

Dr. Amuthan also adds: "it is important you inform the school or nursery, as they should avoid contact with anyone at risk from complications such as pregnant women or children and adults who are immunocompromised."

It is also fine to attend work as an adult, although likewise, you should inform your line manager and colleagues.

Can adults catch slapped cheek syndrome?

“Theoretically yes adults can suffer with slapped cheek,” Dr Sanders states. “But in practice it is unusual because most adults will have immunity following infection in childhood.”

According to information from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE): "Complications of parvovirus B19 infection are rare in healthy people.”

However, it warns that this is not the case for pregnant women and people who are immunocompromised or have hematological disorders, who are at increased risk of serious complications.

Do you need to take extra precautions if you are pregnant?

Yes, you need to take extra precautions if you are pregnant and have been near someone with slapped cheek syndrome. The NHS advice on this is clear stating, "Tell your midwife or a GP if you're pregnant or have a weakened immune system and have been near someone with slapped cheek syndrome."

This is because if you get the infection for the first time while pregnant it can increase the risk of miscarriage. The NHS states, "there's a very small risk of miscarriage or other complications." This is especially the case during the early part of pregnancy. You should alert your GP immediately if you have slapped cheek syndrome in pregnancy.

"Parvovirus 19 can sometimes cause a miscarriage or adversely affect the unborn baby," Dr Sanders warns. “If you are pregnant and exposed to the virus you should consult your doctor who can take a blood test to find whether you have immunity due to previous infection or take tests to establish whether you have currently been infected.”

Dr. Amuthan explains: "In the majority of cases when pregnant women develop the condition, the baby is fine. However, it can lead to loss of the baby or conditions that affect the blood, heart or liver of the baby. In severe cases, the mother can also develop swelling. If you are pregnant try to avoid contact with anyone that may have encountered the virus. They can be infectious up to 10 days before the rash appears. If you are unsure please seek medical attention."

If you are pregnant and think you may have slapped cheek syndrome, contact your doctor as soon as possible. This is so that your baby can be monitored. They will then arrange for a blood test to check for antibodies in your body. If you are in the early stages of pregnancy, you will be monitored by ultrasound.

If you’re unsure if you or your child has slapped cheek syndrome, it’s always best to seek medical advice.

FAQs

The information on GoodTo.com does not constitute medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. Although GoodtoKnow consults a range of medical experts to create and fact-check content, this information is for general purposes only and does not take the place of medical advice. Always seek the guidance of a qualified health professional or seek urgent medical attention if needed.

Our experts

Tonsillitis is a common illness in children and most get viral tonsillitis (caused by a virus), which clears up on its own without the need for medication. 

While treatment isn’t always needed if your child has tonsillitis, you should still always make an appointment with your GP to get a diagnosis and the best advice for your child. 

We spoke to Consultant Practitioner Dr Hussain Ahmad and Dr Ahmed Massoud, Consultant Paediatrician at The Portland Hospital (part of HCA Healthcare UK), and they gave their advice on what to do if your child contracts tonsillitis and how to soothe tonsillitis in toddlers and children at home. 

The information in this article is for general purposes only and does not take the place of medical advice. It is essential to be guided by your GP and take note of official NHS advice. You should immediately seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or you are concerned about your child. As a parent, you know your child better than anyone and you should always trust your own judgement. If you are at all in doubt, or you're worried about your child's symptoms, you should contact your GP.

What is tonsillitis and what causes it?

"Tonsillitis is an infection of the tonsils at the back of your throat. It is a common childhood illness, but teenagers and adults can get it too," explains Dr Ahmed Massoud.

Dr Massoud goes on to say that tonsillitis can be caused by both bacteria and viruses, "it can be viral or bacterial, and not everyone will need medical treatment." 

The NHS states that, "the majority of cases in children are caused by the same group of viruses that cause the common cold, such as adenovirus and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)." The bacteria and viruses that cause tonsillitis can easily be picked up by young children in their day to day lives, so it can be tricky to prevent your child from catching tonsillitis. 

Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children (GOSH) provides this further explanation: "Children's tonsils help them to build up immunity and fight infection. In many children, the tonsils become repeatedly infected with bacteria and viruses, which make them swell and become painful. This is called tonsillitis."

Most cases of tonsillitis are caused by a virus, and in these cases GOSH explains, "antibiotics will not work so are not required."

What should you do if your child contracts tonsillitis?

If you suspect your child might have got tonsillitis you should make an appointment to see your GP as soon as possible. 

"If your child is experiencing tonsillitis symptoms, visit their GP or a local pharmacist for advice," says Dr Massoud. "Depending on how severe the tonsillitis is, it might be that it is treatable at home with rest, plenty of fluids, and child-friendly pain medication like ibuprofen. However, it might be that your child needs treatments available at the pharmacy, or antibiotics depending on the type and severity of the infection," Dr Massoud adds. 

If your child contracts tonsillitis you should keep them at home and away from school, nursery or daycare until they feel better. Make sure that your child also gets plenty of sleep, as they'll need to rest to recover. 

During this time, it's best to keep your child's drinking glasses and eating utensils separate to avoid contamination to the rest of your household. Be sure to wash them in hot, soapy water as well or put them in the dishwasher.

What to do if your child contracts tonsillitis at a glance:

• Make an appointment to see your GP
• Keep them at home until they feel better 
• Make sure your child is drinking enough fluids
• Make sure that your child gets plenty of sleep and rest
• Encourage your child to eat and drink
• Encourage your child to cough or sneeze into a tissue to prevent the infection from spreading
• Ensure everyone in your household washes their hands regularly to help prevent the infection from spreading
• Wash glasses, crockery and cutlery at a high temperature to help minimise the risk of other members of your household getting infected

Are toddlers and children contagious with tonsillitis?

Tonsillitis itself is not contagious, but most of the infections that cause it are, for example, colds and flu. So if your toddler has tonsillitis caused by such an infection, then they can be contagious.

Dr Ahmad explains, "Tonsillitis isn't always contagious, but if it's caused by a bacterial infection then it can be passed on, so avoid sharing drinks with your toddler if you suspect or know they have a bacterial infection."

Dr Massoud goes on to say, "It's important to prevent the spread of the infection by teaching them to cover their mouth when coughing or sneezing and to wash their hands frequently. Additionally, if you or your child have a high temperature, try to stay at home and avoid contact with other people until you feel better."

How to soothe toddlers and children with tonsillitis

Lots of rest, naps, cuddles, sofa time and soft foods will be in order for your toddler or child if they are diagnosed with tonsillitis. 

"To soothe tonsillitis in toddlers, offer them plenty of fluids and soft foods. This should help ease the sore throat," Dr Massoud says.

He adds that over-the-counter pain relievers can also help but remember that you should never give aspirin to children under 16. 

Dr Ahmad says, "Ibuprofen can help reduce inflammation and provide some relief during the day, which can help when you have a mealtime coming up or they seem particularly uncomfortable." Your pharmacist or family doctor will be able to advise you on the appropriate medication for your child if they are suffering from tonsillitis. 

Dr Massoud also emphasises the importance of rest for any child feeling unwell, "of course, rest is also vital in helping recover from any illness, not just tonsillitis."

What is the best food to give a child with tonsillitis?

Tonsillitis is a painful infection, and because of this your child may refuse to eat, even when hungry. Dr Ahmad advises, "Offer cold foods that are easy to swallow, like yoghurts or ice cream, and try not to stress out too much about how much they're eating as it's likely very painful for them."

Give your child soft foods such as puddings, soft white bread dampened by milk, smashed up banana, or ice-cream, as these will be less harsh on the throat compared to scratchy, hard foods such as toast or cereal.

"You can give a child with tonsillitis soft foods that are easy to swallow, such as mashed potatoes, yoghurt, smoothies, or warm (not hot) soups," Dr Massoud says. "Ice cream can also help soothe their throats."

How long does tonsillitis last in a child?

Most cases of tonsillitis disappear within a few days. You should make an appointment to see your GP if your child’s symptoms do not go away within 4 days.

"The duration of tonsillitis in a child can vary, but typically symptoms last for around 3 or 4 days," says Dr Massoud. "If symptoms fail to improve within 72 hours after starting antibiotics or if they persist for more than a week, it’s best to visit your GP."

If your child’s throat infections keep returning, you will need to speak to your GP. They may refer your child to an Ear, Nose & Throat Specialist, and in very rare circumstances a surgery may be suggested to have their tonsils taken out.

Do you need to take extra precautions if you are pregnant?

"Tonsillitis itself doesn't directly affect pregnancy, but if you experience symptoms like a high temperature towards the end of your pregnancy, this can cause complications and the need for extra monitoring during delivery and in your aftercare," Dr Ahmad says. 

Dr Massoud explains, "If you're pregnant, generally you should take extra precautions when it comes to any illness. For example, it’s best to avoid close contact with a child or adult with tonsillitis until they feel better, and symptoms have improved, or have been on antibiotics for bacterial tonsillitis for 48 hours or more."

The information on GoodTo.com does not constitute medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. Although GoodtoKnow consults a range of medical experts to create and fact-check content, this information is for general purposes only and does not take the place of medical advice. Always seek the guidance of a qualified health professional or seek urgent medical attention if needed.

Our experts

Coughs and colds are sadly part and parcel of parenting small children - and sometimes it can feel like you’re in a never-ending cycle of germs. 

These viruses can disrupt a baby or toddler’s sleep, their eating patterns, and make them pretty miserable; but luckily, they are rarely serious or long-lasting. You might find that once your child starts at nursery, or in another childcare setting, they frequently become ill with more bugs. This is frustrating but also completely normal because they are mixing with other children and being exposed to new germs. 

We consulted NHS GP Dr Hana Patel (FRCGP) and GP Dr Alexis Missick (MRCGP), who also works with UK Meds, to find out how you can help soothe coughs and colds in babies and children, and if there is any way of preventing these common bugs.

The information in this article is for general purposes only and does not take the place of medical advice. It is essential to be guided by your GP and take note of official NHS advice. You should immediately seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or you are concerned about your child. 

How common are coughs and colds in babies and children?

Coughs and colds are extremely common in babies and toddlers. Dr Patel says, "over the first year of life, your child is likely to have up to eight of these episodes. Coughing is the body's natural way of clearing infection."

Dr Patel explains that coughs and colds in babies are so common because, "there are hundreds of different cold viruses and young children have no immunity to any of them as they have never had them before. Over time, they gradually build up immunity and get fewer colds."

The more your child comes into contact with people, the more exposed they are to germs. Coughs and colds are spread by droplets which will be found in the air, in public, in childcare settings, or in the family home. Plus, if a baby has an older sibling who is mixing with lots of children at school or nursery, they may also catch viruses brought home by them. 

Colds tend to come on gradually. Babies may have a stuffy nose and mild temperature and will probably sleep more. They may also go off their feeds, both because they feel unwell and because their stuffy nose makes feeding difficult.

Can coughs and colds in babies and children be treated at home?

Yes, coughs and colds in babies and children can usually be treated at home, and Dr Patel says most colds will get better in five to seven days, but can take up to two weeks in small children because their immune systems are still developing.  

It’s unlikely that your child will need to see a GP if they have a cold, however, if your child has a cough which isn’t going away on its own then you should see your GP who will be able to check if they have a chest infection and need antibiotics. 

Dr Missick says you should see your GP if a baby under three months has a fever of 38 degree or above, or 39 degrees in an infant aged three to six months. 

How can I ease my child’s cough and cold symptoms?

A baby or toddler who is feeling unwell is likely to be feeling fussy and irritable. They’ll need lots of cuddles, rest and quiet time. Coughs and colds in babies and children usually make them clingy and can make them fretful. They may want to stay close and may wake more often at night needing comfort. If they refuse feeds because their nose is blocked, you can try to unblock their nose by very gently syringing out the mucus. Ask your chemist for the right product to do this. If possible, feed on demand, little and often, making sure they get plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.

Dr Patel also recommends making sure your child drinks plenty of fluids and encouraging the whole family to wash their hands regularly to stop the cold from spreading. 

You can buy over-the-counter nasal saline sprays to clear congestion and give infant paracetamol if they have a temperature. “If your child has earache, with or without a high temperature, you can give them infant paracetamol or ibuprofen at the recommended dose,” Dr Patel advised. She also adds that it’s worth trying different medicines to see which has the best effect on your child. Your pharmacist or family doctor will be able to advise you on the appropriate medication for your baby.

Dr Missick adds, "Coughs and colds can be treated at home with regular anti-fever medication like Calpol (paracetamol) or Motrin (ibuprofen) which will also help with main symptoms. 

"Saline drops or sprays can help with nasal congestion making it easier to breathe and swallow especially in infants. Even using a decongestant oil like Olbas oil or eucalyptus oil on clothing, clothes, diffusers and in bathtubs can help with the congestion," she adds.

Your child may also need some longer naps and extra milk if they’re not eating full meals while they’re under the weather. 

Does my child need to be kept home from nursery if they have a cough and cold?

Whether or not your child can go to nursery or go to school with a cold or cough will depend on your daycare or nursery's rules and also will depend on how ill your child is and whether they have a temperature or not. 

Dr Patel says, “The gov.uk and NHS advice regarding this, is that it is fine to send your child to school or nursery with a minor cough or common cold if they are otherwise well and do not have a high temperature. But if your child has a fever, they should stay home from school or nursery until they feel better, and the fever has resolved.”

Dr Missick says that while it will depend on your nursery or school, if you can keep your child at home, this could be helpful: "while it can be a challenge for parents to have the child at home, it is useful for nurseries because it helps to reduce the spread. 

"Little ones are less likely to cough and sneeze into tissues and elbows, they share the same toys and most are very friendly, hugging their mates often even when unwell. All of these things increase the chances of spreading a virus that is easily transmissible."

How do you know it's just a cold and not flu?

It can be hard to distinguish colds from flu, particularly in winter, when both are common. Flu symptoms are usually more severe than colds, although this varies from case to case. Unlike colds that tend to come on gradually, flu tends to start suddenly, with a higher body temperature, and leaves a child feeling extremely weak.

Whenever you have a viral illness, such as a cold or flu, you're more prone to getting a second bacterial infection on top of it. This may cause a chest or ear infection, sinusitis or tonsillitis. These can occur without a cold and may also be caused by viruses - all this can make it quite hard to know exactly what it is your child is suffering from.

The NHS advises phoning your GP or 111 if: 

• Your baby is less than 3 months old and has a temperature of 38 °C or above
• Your child is aged 3 months or older and has a temperature of 39 °C or above
• Your baby or child has fewer wet nappies, nappies that seem drier than usual, or a dry nappy for 12 hours or more
• Your baby’s having difficulty feeding
• Your baby’s taking less than half their usual amount during their last 2 or 3 feeds
• You think your baby may have coronavirus (COVID-19) symptoms

If your baby or child is unwell and you're worried, or their cough and cold symptoms do not improve after a few days, trust your instincts and always speak to your GP.

Parents should always follow the NHS advice about getting to know their baby. If you are worried about your baby, a rash that has appeared, or you notice a change in their behaviour - such as not feeding well, being very sleepy, or very irritable - contact your GP or midwife immediately.

Is there anything you can do to prevent coughs and colds?

As coughs and colds are so common, it would be tricky to prevent your child from ever catching one. However, there are a few things you can do to try and keep your family as healthy as possible, especially during seasons of colder weather. Dr Missick says winter is the worst time for these types of illnesses because people stay inside more which means the germs can spread easily and they also thrive in colder weather. She recommends:

• Ventilating spaces if you don’t want to go out in the cold with your baby.
• Maintain good hygiene methods by washing your hands, and your baby’s, regularly.
• Try to limit contact with adults and other children who are ill.  

GPs answer your frequently asked questions about coughs and colds in babies and children

The information on GoodTo.com does not constitute medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. Although GoodtoKnow consults a range of medical experts to create and fact-check content, this information is for general purposes only and does not take the place of medical advice. Always seek the guidance of a qualified health professional or seek urgent medical attention if needed.

Our experts

Roseola, also known as the sixth disease, is a common viral infection that mainly affects babies and toddlers under the age of three, and it can also affect newborns too. 

The virus is known as the sixth disease because it is one in a group of half a dozen childhood viral illnesses that feature skin rashes. Other viral infections include measles, scarlet fever and rubella. While related, having one of those illnesses does not cause another.

Roseola presents with cold-like symptoms at first (sore throat, runny nose, coughing), so you might think your little one has caught a common childhood cough and cold. However roseola also presents with a high temperature followed by a rash after a few days. 

We spoke to Dr Stuart Sanders at The London General Practice and Consultant Practitioner Dr Hussain Ahmad about roseola, and they shared their advice on what to do if your child or newborn catches the infection, as well as sharing when a child can return to nursery or daycare after contracting roseola. 

Although you can usually look after your child or baby at home while they have roseola, if you are worried about a rash that has appeared on your baby or child's skin, or you notice a change in their behaviour - such as not feeding well, being very sleepy, or very irritable - contact your GP immediately. When it comes to newborns, parents should always follow the NHS advice about getting to know your baby. 

How does a child get roseola and is it contagious?

Roseola is contagious and Dr Hussain Ahmad explains, "Roseola is passed on through close contact, so it's very contagious in small children, particularly those in nurseries or with siblings."

"Newborn roseola is less common, but they can get it if exposed to other children who have it," Dr Ahmad adds. 

Dr Stuart Sanders told us that a child can get roseola, "by contact with a child who has the infection when they sneeze or cough and occasionally by touch."

To stop the infection spreading, you and your child should wash your hands often. You should also encourage your child to sneeze or cough into a tissue and throw the tissue away immediately. Cleaning household surfaces and avoiding sharing things like cutlery or plates could also help stop the infection spreading at home to siblings of a child that has roseola. 

Dr Ahmad also advises, "As it's contagious and easily spread, you should keep your child at home until they are no longer suffering from a high-temperature, as this is when roseola is most contagious."

What should you do if your child or newborn catches roseola?

A baby or child with roseola will need lots of rest, plenty of fluids and maybe some children's paracetamol if they are uncomfortable and in pain. While your child is resting at home the NHS also advises that you shouldn’t cover them up in too many clothes or bedclothes. 

Dr Sanders says, "If your child contracts roseola it’s best to keep them at home, ensure they have an adequate fluid intake and give them Paracetamol liquid - dose as appropriate to their age and weight if they have a raised temperature which is causing distress." He also cautions, "do not give aspirin to children under 16 years and do not give Ibuprofen to newborn infants."

The NHS cautions that you should not combine ibuprofen and paracetamol, unless a GP tells you to, and also states:

• do not give paracetamol to a child under 2 months
• do not give ibuprofen to a child under 3 months or under 5kg
• do not give ibuprofen to children with asthma

Dr Ahmad also advises, "Monitor their temperature and keep them comfortable. If you are concerned about their temperature or behaviour, you should take them to your GP or local out-of-hours service."

Call a doctor if your child seems very sleepy, lethargic or confused, if they refuse fluids, or if you suspect the illness to be a more serious one such as meningitis or measles.

Can a child with roseola go to daycare or nursery?

You will need to keep your child at home and away from nursery or daycare while they have a high temperature as this is when roseola is thought to be most contagious. Dr Sanders says, "They should not go to daycare while they have a temperature, but they are not infectious when the rash appears. Always check with the daycare provider about what stage they will accept the child back into daycare or nursery."

The NHS states: "Once the high temperature has passed, you do not need to keep your child away from nursery if they're feeling well enough to attend. There's no need to wait until the rash disappears."

Do you need to take extra precautions if you are pregnant?

"There is no evidence that exposure to roseola during pregnancy has an adverse effect on a mother or her unborn child," says Dr Sanders.

Dr Ahmad adds, "Roseola is usually not considered dangerous for pregnant women or unborn babies, but if you are concerned, you should contact your GP for advice and to discuss any concerning symptoms."

When should you seek further support?

The NHS says that if you discover your child has roseola, "you can usually look after your child or baby at home with rest, fluids and painkillers. The infection should pass within a week." However, you should see your GP again if the rash doesn’t improve after three days. 

Dr Stuart Sanders also told us, "There are usually no worrying features [of roseola] , but very, very occasionally there could be convulsions associated with the high temperature."

If you are at all concerned about your baby or child, you should always trust your instincts as a parent and speak to your GP straightaway. If your child experiences a seizure (convulsions) call the emergency services. 

The NHS also advises that you should ask for an urgent GP appointment in the following instances: 

• If you or your child has a weakened immune system and has had contact with someone with roseola
• If your child is under 3 months old and has a temperature of 38C or higher (or you think they have a high temperature)
• If your child is 3 to 6 months old and has a temperature of 39C or higher (or you think they have a high temperature)
• If your child has a high temperature that's lasted for 5 days or longer
• If your child is refusing fluids or feeds
• If your child is not their usual self and you're worried
• If your child has a high temperature that does not come down with paracetamol or ibuprofen
• If your child is showing signs of dehydration – such as nappies that are not very wet, sunken eyes, and no tears when they're crying

Call 999 or go to A&E if a baby or young child has any of these symptoms:

• blue, grey, pale or blotchy skin, lips or tongue – if they have black or brown skin, this may be easier to see on the palms of their hands and soles of their feet
• a rash that does not fade when you roll a glass over it, the same as meningitis
• difficulty breathing (you may notice grunting noises or their stomach sucking under their ribcage), breathlessness or breathing very fast
• a weak, high-pitched cry that's not like their normal cry
• not responding like they normally do, or not interested in feeding or normal activities
• being sleepier than normal or difficult to wake

Doctors answer frequently asked questions about roseola

The information on GoodTo.com does not constitute medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. Although GoodtoKnow consults a range of medical experts to create and fact-check content, this information is for general purposes only and does not take the place of medical advice. Always seek the guidance of a qualified health professional or seek urgent medical attention if needed.

Our experts

Impetigo is a skin infection that's very common in young children and very contagious. Thankfully it’s not usually serious and often gets better in 7 to 10 days if you speak to your GP and get the proper course of treatment. 

Impetigo is a bacterial infection that causes red sores or blisters on the skin that can be itchy and irritating. It can affect any part of the body but is most commonly found on the face – especially around the nose and mouth. When the blisters burst they leave behind crusty golden-brown patches.

There are three types of impetigo: non-bullous, bullous and ecthyma.

Dr Adam Friedmann, consultant dermatologist at Stratum Clinics, and Dr Ahmed Massoud, Consultant Paediatrician at The Portland Hospital (part of HCA Healthcare UK), both shared their insights and advice on impetigo for this article, so you know what to do if your child catches this common infection and what steps to take to help them recover quickly and fully. 

The information in this article is for general purposes only and does not take the place of medical advice. It is essential to be guided by your GP and take note of official NHS advice. You should immediately seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or you are concerned about your child. If you are unsure, concerned about their symptoms, or a rash that has appeared, then it is crucial to seek personalised advice from a doctor as soon as possible. 

What causes impetigo?

Impetigo is a skin infection caused by bacteria. The bacterium most commonly responsible is called Staphylococcus aureus. Aureus is Latin for gold, and the bacterium is so-named because it looks golden when grown in a lab.

Dr Adam Friedmann explains, "Impetigo is typically caused by the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus, but sometimes, less frequently, by Streptococcus pyogenes. Non-bullous and bullous are the two most common types."

Impetigo is a very contagious infection that spreads through touch. It usually starts on skin that is already damaged; for example, a graze or a patch of eczema. You can prevent this by making sure cuts and grazes are clean and covered, and by getting treatment for eczema.

The bacteria that cause impetigo can also penetrate the skin via cold sores, chapped skin and insect bites.

Dr Friedmann adds, "The incubation period for impetigo is up to ten days from being first exposed to the bacteria so you won’t see symptoms straight away. The length of incubation will depend on what strain it is (streptococcal infections is approx. 1-3 days and staphylococcal infections is more like 4-10 days).

"The first signs of impetigo tend to be itchy blisters that develop pus and red sores that quickly burst and ooze for a few days before forming a yellow/brown crust. On the whole you'll notice these around the nose and mouth first before they quickly spread to other parts of the body."

What should you do if your child contracts impetigo?

If you think your child has impetigo, the first thing you should do is make an appointment with your GP. As impetigo is so infectious your GP may suggest a phone consultation instead of asking you to bring your child into the surgery. 

As impetigo is a bacterial infection it usually requires antibiotic treatment, either in the form of a cream or medicine, which will be prescribed by your GP or health professional.

Dr Friedmann explains, "if only a small patch of skin is affected, an antibiotic ointment used for five days will usually suffice. Topical mupirocin or fusidic acid is very successful in treating mild forms of the condition. However, if the infection has spread to other areas of the body, the doctor may prescribe an antibiotic pill such as penicillin to be taken for seven - 10 days. Erythromycin can be used in those allergic to penicillin.

"After antibiotic treatment begins, healing should start within a few days. Like all antibiotics it’s important to continue to use the treatment as prescribed and not stop early, even if the impetigo has cleared up."

To avoid impetigo spreading to other family members don’t share bedlinen, clothes or towels with an infected person and wash these items at a high temperature after use. You and your child should wash your hands regularly to prevent further spreading. Try to prevent your child from itching the sores or blisters then touching another part of their body, as it also spreads this way.

Occasionally, impetigo can lead to complications such as cellulitis – a more serious skin infection. Monitor your child closely and if the impetigo is not getting better after seven days of treatment, or the symptoms change or get worse, you should see your GP again. You should also speak to your GP if your child has had impetigo before and it keeps coming back. 

How do you soothe a child with impetigo?

Impetigo is usually more itchy and irritating than painful. To help make your child feel more comfortable, dress them in loose, light clothing, keep the sores clean and dry (an antiseptic soap will do), and cut their fingernails short or, if you can, put them in mittens or gloves at night to prevent scratching.

Dr Friedmann advises, "Whilst impetigo can feel sore and itchy, sufferers don’t tend to feel too poorly with it. While the infection is healing, gently wash the skin daily with clean gauze and antiseptic soap and to prevent spreading, cover infected areas with gauze bandages or loose clothing.

"To speed the healing process avoid touching patches of impetigo and ensure you wash your hands immediately before and after applying the antibiotic cream/ointment."

Dr Ahmed Massoud recommends, "to soothe a child with impetigo, you can use over-the-counter pain relief medications, and keep the skin clean by gently washing the affected areas with mild soap and water." Always check with your pharmacist or doctor to find out what pain relief medications might be suitable for your child before purchasing.

Can a child with impetigo go to school or nursery?

As impetigo is so contagious you will need to keep your child off school or nursery until the sores are dry and have scabbed over, or until they’ve been on antibiotic treatment for a minimum of 48 hours.

Dr Friedmann states, "During the contagious period it’s advisable to stay away from school as impetigo can spread very quickly through school classes."

How long is impetigo contagious and when can a child with impetigo return to school or nursery?

The NHS website recommends that 48 hours after starting antibiotic treatment impetigo will stop being contagious, or when the blisters have crusted over and dried out – whichever is sooner. Even if your child is showing signs of improvement they should complete the course of antibiotics.

Dr Friedmann explains, "The infection usually gets better in seven to ten days of treatment. As a rule, individuals are no longer contagious once the sores have disappeared. However, this timeframe can be reduced with appropriate topical antibiotics and with effective oral antibiotics the sufferer is usually considered non contagious after about 48 hours of treatment."

He adds, "It’s advisable to keep them off school until the weeping and golden crusting is gone. With treatment this normally takes a few days."

Can adults get impetigo?

Children under the age of five are most prone to catching impetigo, although older kids and adults can be infected by it too. This is especially true if they have a skin or immunodeficiency disorder, diabetes, or are having chemotherapy.

Dr Friedmann says, "In the UK it is the most common bacterial skin infection seen in children, but it can affect people of any age."

"Anyone can develop impetigo, but it's very common in young children (aged two - six years). The bacteria that cause impetigo can infect normal skin, but typically it’s skin that is already damaged (i.e. due to eczema or cold sores, bites, scabies, cuts or grazes etc.)."

"Also, people with a low immunity, undergoing chemotherapy or suffering with diabetes are more prone to developing it."

Does impetigo require contact precautions with other family members?

Yes, impetigo does require contact precautions with other family members, especially people with diabetes or a weakened immune system and babies. 

Impetigo can be a threat to babies, in particular to newborns who don’t have the immunity to fight the infection. Take extra steps to avoid your baby catching it, and if they do, see your GP immediately. 

You can help your baby by washing and disinfecting toys, bed linen, clothes and towels to prevent further contamination. Wash yours and your child’s hands regularly, and keep them apart from other children in the household until the sores scab over.

Dr Massoud says, "Make sure to wash hands frequently and avoid sharing personal items like towels and toys. Where possible:

• Encourage the child to not touch or scratch sores, blisters, or crusty patches – this also helps stop scarring. Likewise, do not touch your child’s sores whenever possible.
• Do not share flannels, sheets, towels or clothes.
• Wipe down their toys and wash their clothes and bedding at a high temperature.
• Prevent the sharing of food or cutlery with family members.

Dr Friedmann adds, "​​Impetigo can spread very quickly through families as it is easily spread from person to person by direct contact with the infected skin.  

"To avoid it from spreading make sure you look after your skin by keeping sores, blisters and crusty patches clean and dry and covering them with loose clothing or gauze bandages.

"Make sure you wash your hands frequently and it’s also good to wash your bed sheets and towels/flannels at a high temperature. In cases of children, wash or wipe down toys with detergent and warm water.

"Due to the contagious nature of the infection, impetigo can quickly spread to other parts of the body and so it’s imperative that sufferers don’t touch or scratch their sores, blisters or crusty patches – this will also help avoid scarring."

Do you need to take extra precautions if you are pregnant?

Dr Friedmann reassures that "​​being pregnant poses no extra risk." Pregnant women can catch impetigo if they’re in close contact with someone who has it but because it’s a superficial skin infection it won’t harm a growing foetus.

Dr Massoud explains, "It is quite rare for an adult to get impetigo. This is partly because it is usually caused by the most common bacteria which are present on the skin, and adults usually have more resistance. However, if you have been in contact with a child, or adult, with impetigo and you are pregnant, visit your GP if you develop any concerning symptoms. It is treatable, so there is minimal risk to the mum and unborn child if it is treated promptly."

FAQs

The information on GoodTo.com does not constitute medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. Although GoodtoKnow consults a range of medical experts to create and fact-check content, this information is for general purposes only and does not take the place of medical advice. Always seek the guidance of a qualified health professional or seek urgent medical attention if needed.

Our experts

When your baby is born their body begins to react to their new environment as they experience things like different fabrics and even air for the first time.

Because of this, in the first few days of your new baby's life it's completely normal for them to develop little rashes or reactions to their new world. It's amazing to think that their skin is completely untouched, so remember they need to adjust to every encounter of baby rash with the previously unknown.

However, if your baby's redness or baby rash comes with other symptoms or it looks more than a simple irritation, then you might want to find out more with our baby rash guide.

If you have any concerns about your baby's health it's best to go to your GP right away, but this simple guide to baby rashes may help you get an understanding of what type of baby rash it could be at home.

Use the baby rash pictures and descriptions below to compare with your baby's skin and see if you recognise what could be affecting them.

Types of baby rash

Baby acne

You may not have realised it, but baby acne is a thing. When babies are born their pores are so unused to the grime and pollution of our environment, it's pretty normal for them to get a few little zits whilst their skin adjusts. These should clear up on their own after a few weeks but you can gently wash your baby's face with water and gentle moisturiser to help.

Cradle cap

It may not sound pretty, but even though cradle cap affects lots of babies, it isn't painful or harmful. This condition sees yellow, greasy, scaly patches appear on your baby's head - which can sometimes move down around their face and ears too.

We spoke to Dr Shefali Rajpopat, who worked with AVEENO® Baby to help launch their baby skincare range, and she gave us some advice on how to deal with cradle cap.

'Cradle cap is commonly seen in babies within the first 6 weeks of life. It is not due to an allergy or poor hygiene and is not infectious. In newborn babies the sweat glands can be overactive and release an oily sebum that prevents skin cells from naturally detaching from the surface. The built up cells appear as greasy yellow scales across the scalp that sometimes extend onto the face. In most cases it is not itchy or uncomfortable.'

'From six weeks old you can use a mild baby shampoo such as AVEENO® Baby Daily Care Baby Hair & Body Wash, followed by gentle brushing to help loosen the scales. For the majority of babies that is all that is needed. However if the scalp is red and itchy then your doctor may prescribe a medicated shampoo or a mild steroid cream. Cradle cap is a temporary condition that usually clears up between 6-12 months.'

Eczema

Eczema is a skin condition that most people have at least heard of, being pretty common among children and adults alike. If you have eczema there's a chance your tot could too as it's a skin condition that can be hereditary, causing red, dry and irritable patches that usually show up in folds of skin or at the backs of knees.

Hand, foot and mouth disease

Don't get this one confused with the similar sounding disease that can affect animals. Hand, foot and mouth is a viral disease that creates sore blisters on your youngsters little paws and even ulcers in their mouth.

Hives

One of the defining symptoms of hives is a red rash that sits raised above the skin and can be very itchy. Hives is usually triggered by something, like an allergic reaction, which then causes histamine to be released into the skin and creates a rash. The trigger for babies is usually a food or drink that they are allergic to such as egg or milk. The rash is usually short-lived and can be controlled with antihistamines but if your baby keeps getting hives repeatedly you will need to speak to your doctor about their allergies.

Impetigo

Impetigo is a bacterial infection that causes sores and blisters on the skin that not only look quite shocking but are rather uncomfortable. Although they tend to heal on their own and should disappear within seven to ten days, the real kicker is that this infection is highly contagious. It's not usually serious but if it persists see your doctor for a prescription of antibiotics.

Nappy rash

Nappy rash is a real downer, but the causes are quite explanatory when you think about it, and therefore easy to avoid. The dampness sitting on your baby's skin around their nappy area can rub and cause irritation which results in a rash. This means it's important to always change your baby's nappy as soon as you realise they have soiled it, not even letting a wee sit in there for a while. Keep your baby's skin clean and dry and all should be fine, you could even use a barrier cream for an extra hand.

Ringworm

The clue's in the name with this fungal infection, which leaves circular red patches on a baby's skin, usually on the scalp, feet and groin areas. Luckily ringworm can be treated with over the counter creams and isn't a serious condition.

Scabies

Scabies is an unpleasant infection which happens when tiny mites burrow under the skin and create an infestation resulting in small, itchy spots all over a baby's skin. The spots usually occur in areas such as the feet, armpit or genital area and are passed on by another host meaning that someone in your family or friends has passed it on. To treat a baby with scabies you can use over the counter creams but you will need to make sure anyone who could have been a carrier is also treated.

Slapped cheek syndrome

Slapped cheek syndrome is a viral infection which can leave your little one feeling under the weather with cold like snuffles, a fever and the added symptom of bright pink patches on their cheeks. The condition is considered pretty mild and should pass within a few days without treatment.

Meningitis

Meningitis is an infection of the membranes that surround the spinal cord and can be life threatening. There are two types of meningitis, bacterial and viral, and both can be recognised by a pale, blotchy rash as well as other symptoms.

Sepsis is a dangerous condition that can potentially be fatal, yet it's hardly ever talked about. Read our guide on the condition, which includes sepsis symptoms and causes.

An estimated 37,000 people die of sepsis each year in the UK, and a staggering 100,000 people are admitted to hospital with the condition.

Figures collated by Prof Sir Brian Jarman have revealed that sepsis deaths recorded in England's hospitals have risen by more than a third in recent years - with 15,722 people dying because of the condition in hospital or within 30 days of discharge.

Back in 2015, sepsis hit the headlines when Charlie Jermyn died of sepsis only 30 hours after he was born, after a midwife failed to recognise the little boy's symptoms.

In December 2014, one-year-old William Mead was suffering from sepsis, caused by an underlying chest infection and pneumonia, but the condition was not spotted by GPs, out-of-hours services and a 111 call handler.

William's mum, Melissa Mead, was told by doctors 'not to worry', but a report investigating her son's death found that 'William would probably have survived', had 'different courses of action been taken'. She's since been working to raise greater awareness among GPs and parents, and has teamed up with Public Health England, The UK Sepsis Trust and the Department of Health to create a Public Awareness Campaign for Sepsis.

https://www.facebook.com/amotherwithoutachild/videos/1286370781386411/

But what is sepsis and how can you spot it? Here's all you need to know...

What is sepsis?

Sepsis is a potentially life-threatening condition triggered by an infection, which causes the body's immune system to go into overdrive.

This overworking of the immune system starts a chain of reactions, which include widespread inflammation, blood clotting and swelling.

These reactions lead to a significant decrease in blood pressure, which severely limits the blood reaching vital organs like the brain, heart and kidneys. If sepsis is not treated quickly, the condition can lead to multiple organ failure and death.

Sepsis symptoms

The early symptoms of sepsis usually develop very quickly so it's important to seek help as soon as they start to occur. Sepsis symptoms include:

- High temperature (fever) - Chills and shivering - Fast heartbeat - Fast breathing

If not treated, the condition can develop into septic shock, which is when blood pressure drops to a dangerously low level. At this stage, symptoms include:

- Feeling dizzy or faint - Confusion or disorientation - Nausea and vomiting - Diarrhoea - Cold, clammy and pale or mottled skin

In the case of severe sepsis or septic shock, call 999 and ask for an ambulance.

For more information, please visit the NHS information page for sepsis, or speak to your GP.

What causes sepsis?

Sepsis can be caused by an infection in any part of the body. The infections associated with sepsis include pneumonia, appendicitis, urinary tract infection, meningitis and, in some cases, flu.

In most cases, your immune system will fight infections locally, and stop them from spreading. However, if your immune system is weak or the infection is particularly severe, it can spread through the blood stream into other parts of the body.

In this case, the immune system goes into overdrive and the inflamation process is spread to the rest of the body. This widespread inflammation damages tissue and interferes with the flow of blood, which stops oxygen reaching your organs and tissues.

Who's at risk of suffering from sepsis?

Anyone can suffer from sepsis after an injury or minor infection, but there are people who may be more susceptible to the condition:

- Very young or very old people; - People already in hospital with a serious illness; - People with a weakened immune system - People who've just had surgery or who have wounds or injuries as a result of an accident

Children already in hospital may be more at risk of getting sepsis

Sepsis treatment

The key to an efficient treatment is to catch the condition as early as possible, so look out for symptoms if you children have recently suffered from a bacterial infection or are in any of the groups at risk.

If sepsis is detected before affecting the vital organs, it can possibly be treated by taking antibiotics at home.

In the cases in which the condition has already reached a more severe state, patients will have to get care from an intensive care unit (ICU), where support for vital organs can be provided.

Because of the problems it poses to vital organs, severe sepsis can be fatal, or make people very ill.

Whooping cough may sound like an illness from a bygone era, however it still poses a very real threat to babies in 2024 and cases are on the rise again in the UK. 

The government recorded a 'continued increase' in whooping cough cases at the start of this year, and the highly contagious infection is most dangerous for babies aged under six months old because they are too young to be fully vaccinated against the bacterial infection as part of the NHS routine vaccinations for children. 

It is crucial that you seek medical advice from a GP or your family doctor if you suspect your child may have whooping cough. This is because, while it shouldn’t cause serious side effects in older children and adults, whooping cough can cause concerning and sometimes life-threatening complications in babies – especially infants aged six months or younger. 

We asked two doctors - Dr Sanjeev Kalia, a GP who is the lead in newborn baby health screening at his NHS practice, and Dr José Costa, a senior consultant paediatrician – for their evidence-backed advice on whooping cough and below they answer some of the most frequently asked questions about the infection and provide advice for parents on what to do if your child comes down with the ilnness. 

Remember, always consult the latest NHS advice and seek medical attention as soon as possible if you think your child has whooping cough, especially if your baby is under six months old. 

What is whooping cough?

Whooping cough is also known as pertussis, which means 'intense cough' and is caused by a bacterial infection of the lungs and breathing tubes. Both adults and children can catch the bacterial infection and it spreads very easily .

"It was first identified in the 1500s and before whooping cough vaccination became routinely available - in the 1950s in the UK - it was the leading cause of death in children under 14 years of age," explains Dr Costa. Reassuringly, although the illness is still very dangerous for small babies and the condition is still taken seriously, it is now only very rarely fatal and the whooping cough vaccine protects babies and children from getting the infection. 

Why is whooping cough making a comeback?

There have been concerns over rising whooping cough infections this year, with an increase in the number of cases in the UK recently. "As of March 2024, data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) showed there has been a continued increase - there were 553 confirmed cases in England in January, compared to 858 for the whole of 2023," shares Dr Kalia. 

The UKHSA has linked an increase in cases to the combination of Covid-19 pandemic restrictions reducing social mixing and a decrease in whooping cough vaccination among children. "The latter has resulted in a decline in what is known as ‘herd effect’ immunity," explains Dr Costa. "This is where there is a high enough percentage of children vaccinated to protect the ones who are unvaccinated." He adds that this needs to be between 92 per cent and 94 per cent - as it has been amongst those under two years old, according to the UKHSA, since 1992.

What are the main symptoms of whooping cough?

There is a good chance that you might not realise your child is suffering from whooping cough at first because the initial signs of whooping cough are similar to coughs and colds in babies and children.  

"The symptoms are initially similar to a common cold, such as a sore throat and runny nose," explains Dr Kalia. There may also be a low-grade temperature, sneezing and red, watery eyes. 

However, after seven days, these previous symptoms fade and are replaced by - as the name suggests - a cough. "A dry cough starts, which is intermittent at first," explains Dr Costa. "This will then evolve into an uninterrupted cough." Bouts of coughing can sometimes last for a few minutes and worsen at night. "As the cough ceases and the child takes a deep breath, there will be a ‘whoop’ - creating the distinctive whooping cough sound - due to the partially closed airway," Dr Costa continues. 

Dr Kalia adds, "The cough can also be accompanied by a thick mucus which can lead to a child vomiting, and in young infants it can cause them to have difficulty breathing after a coughing bout - meaning they may turn blue or grey." For all youngsters, while the cough tends to peak over two weeks, it can last months, and be distressing as well as tiring for them. 

What is the difference between whooping cough and croup?

"The main distinction between the two is the type of cough, which in croup sounds more like a barking seal as opposed to the ‘whoop’ sound in pertussis infections," explains Dr Kalia. "In addition, croup is a viral infection which lasts a few weeks at most whereas whooping cough is bacterial and can hang around for several months."

Dr Costa notes: "Whooping cough is caused by a bacteria, while croup is triggered by a virus. While the former can be treated with antibiotics, the latter needs strong steroids to bring the inflammation down." Despite their differences, he adds, "both are quite serious, and if left unattended, can be life threatening," emphasising how important it is to seek medical advice from your GP or family doctor straightaway. 

What to do if you think your child has whooping cough

The first thing you should do if you think your child has whooping cough is seek advice from your doctor with urgency. "You should consult your GP as soon as possible to confirm the diagnosis and seek treatment," insists Dr Kalia.

As whooping cough is highly contagious, it's advisable to call your GP or doctor first before taking your child in to the clinic. This is because your GP surgery may suggest a phone consultation in the first instance. Apart from taking them to the doctor, you should keep your child at home and away from public settings as if they have whooping cough there's a chance they will spread the infection to others. 

While it is important for children of any age to be seen by a doctor if they have whooping cough, it is particularly crucial for babies under six months old who may need to be hospitalised in case of complications. "Children under three months, and most of those between three and six months, will need to be admitted to hospital," warns Dr Costa. This is because babies below six months who are infected with whooping cough can experience serious - sometimes life-threatening complications - including seizures and inflammation of the brain. 

"Treatment for whooping cough is based on age and how long someone has had the infection," explains Dr Kalia. For children over six months, medical advice will depend on the severity of their symptoms, but may include being prescribed an antibiotic and being allowed to recover at home.

"Children who have had whooping cough for more than three weeks won’t normally need any specific treatment, as they’re no longer contagious and antibiotics are unlikely to now help," says Dr Kalia. "While they’re recovering at home, it can help to give them plenty of rest and fluids, as well as to frequently clean away mucus and sick from their mouth." However, if their cough seems to be getting worse after the three-week point, you should seek further medical advice. 

The NHS states that you should ask for an urgent GP appointment or get help from NHS 111 if:

• your baby is under 6 months old and has symptoms of whooping cough
• you or your child have a very bad cough that is getting worse
• you've been in contact with someone with whooping cough and you're pregnant
• you or your child has been in contact with someone with whooping cough and have a weakened immune system

You should call 999 or go to A&E if:

• your or your child's lips, tongue, face or skin suddenly turn blue or grey (on black or brown skin this may be easier to see on the palms of the hands or the soles of the feet)
• you or your child are finding it hard to breathe properly (shallow breathing)
• you or your child have chest pain that's worse when breathing or coughing – this could be a sign of pneumonia
• your child is having seizures (fits)

Can a child go to school with whooping cough and if not, when can they return to school or nursery after the infection?

In short, no – your child cannot go to school if they have whooping cough and they should stay at home and away from all public settings until they are no longer contagious. 

"This disease is highly contagious, so your child needs to be at home, in isolation," insists Dr Costa. The NHS states that those with whooping cough will need to, "stay off school, work or nursery until 48 hours after starting antibiotics, or 3 weeks after your symptoms started if you've not had antibiotics." 

"Current UKHSA pertussis guidance recommends that confirmed and suspected cases are excluded from nursery or school until 48 hours after commencing appropriate antibiotic therapy, or for 21 days from onset of symptoms if they are not treated with antibiotics,” explains Dr Kalia.

There are also some other factors to take into consideration before your child returns to school or nursery, such as if your child feels well enough to return and if the school or childcare setting has their own policy or protocol for whooping cough cases. "Returning to school will also depend on how the child feels and how severe their symptoms are," notes Dr Costa. If you are unsure of your childcare or school's policy for whooping cough, check with them directly. 

The whooping cough vaccine for children

The NHS states that the whooping cough vaccine: "protects babies and children from getting whooping cough."

"It is routinely given as part of the 6-in-1 vaccine - for babies at 8, 12 and 16 weeks," explains Dr Kalia. "Additionally, it is also routinely given as part of the 4-in-1 pre-school booster – for children aged three years and four months." It is usually administered in conjunction with the jabs for diphtheria, tetanus and polio. 

Dr Costa notes that anyone, including adults as well as children, can get the whooping cough vaccine free on the NHS since it is on the UK vaccination schedule. According to the NHS, while the jab doesn’t provide lifelong protection and wears off after a few years, it does stop children developing it very young when they are more vulnerable to the infection. "The effectiveness of the whooping cough vaccine does wear off after a few years," notes Dr Kalia. This is why the national vaccination programme is carried out at certain time intervals to maximise protection in babies.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), some babies may experience swelling at the site of the jab as well as irritability and tiredness.

The whooping cough vaccine and pregnancy

Another line of protection for infants against whooping cough is a drive for pregnant women to receive the jab too, in order to protect their newborns until they are able to receive their own routine jab at eight weeks. “This is so antibodies can be passed onto the unborn child,” explains Dr Kalia. “The ideal time for expectant mothers to have the vaccine is between weeks 16 and 32, but the sooner they get it the better.” An Australian study published in October 2023 found that it significantly reduced risk of infection in newborns. 

The pregnancy and birth safety charity Tommy’s emphasises the safety of the vaccine, pointing to a study of 20,000 vaccinated women in the British Medical Journal. The researchers discovered no evidence of an increased risk of stillbirth, low birth weight, pre-eclampsia or any other pregnancy complications. You can ask your GP for information on getting the vaccine for whooping cough while pregnant. 

According to the NHS, pregnant women may have mild side effects such as swelling and redness where the vaccine was injected in your upper arm - which should only last a few days, You might occasionally experience a temperature, nausea and headaches.

Dr Kalia adds: "There is no evidence that if you develop whooping cough in pregnancy your baby will be harmed while it is inside of you. The risk to your baby has to do with once your baby is born, with the disease being highly infectious and most serious in babies under the age of 12 months."

You can find out more about the whooping cough vaccination in pregnancy via the NHS here.

Answers to frequently asked questions about whooping cough

The information on GoodTo.com does not constitute medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. Although GoodtoKnow consults a range of medical experts to create and fact-check content, this information is for general purposes only and does not take the place of medical advice. Always seek the guidance of a qualified health professional or seek urgent medical attention if needed.

Our experts

Scarlet fever might sound like an illness straight out of a Charles Dickens novel but in actual fact it’s still a common illness among young children in the UK.

The UK Health Security Agency states, "Scarlet fever is mainly a childhood disease, with around 90% of cases occurring in children under 10 years old." It is a highly contagious disease which is also notifiable, which means each case has to be reported to the Director of Public Health who monitors outbreaks or clusters. The agency says the disease is most common in children aged between two and eight and Public Health England state that scarlet fever occurs most often in the winter and spring.

We consulted GP and founder of Say GP Dr Semiya Aziz (MRCGP), NHS GP Dr Hana Patel (FRCGP) and GP Dr Alexis Missick (MRCGP), to find out more about what you should do if your child has scarlet fever and to answer some frequently asked questions about the illness. 

The information in this article is for general purposes only and does not take the place of medical advice. It is essential to be guided by your GP and take note of official NHS advice. You should immediately seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or you are concerned about your child. If you are unsure, concerned about their symptoms or a rash that has appeared, then it is crucial to seek personalised advice from a doctor as soon as possible. 

What is scarlet fever?

Scarlet fever is caused by a bacteria called ​​Streptococcus pyogenes, or group A streptococcus (GAS) - the same bacteria that can cause impetigo - and it’s very infectious. 

The key symptoms are a temperature, a rash that feels like sandpaper to touch, sore throat, a swollen white tongue and red cheeks. The red cheeks symptom can be confused for slapped cheek syndrome and the scarlet fever rash can be confused with measles, so if you haven’t already, it’s important that you contact your GP immediately if you think you or your child has scarlet fever. 

A GP will usually diagnose scarlet fever from the symptoms alone but the UK Health Security Agency adds, "The diagnosis can be confirmed by taking a throat swab, which is then sent to a laboratory to identify the bacteria causing the infection. In some cases, a throat swab is not enough and a blood test may be needed."

The government website also states: "Most mild cases of scarlet fever will clear up on their own, but it is still best to see your GP if you, or your child, are showing symptoms."

You will need to check with your GP surgery over the phone before you take your child in because scarlet fever is very contagious. They may ask you to go in a different entrance or not wait in the reception area, to reduce the risk of spreading the infection.

A GP will usually prescribe a course of antibiotics for a child with scarlet fever and this will bring down the fever, help with other symptoms and stop your child from passing it on. 

Dr Patel adds, "The fever should disappear within 24 hours of starting antibiotics and the other symptoms should go within a couple of days. The rash usually fades after about a week. Treatment is important as it reduces the risk of developing complications."

How contagious is scarlet fever?

Scarlet fever is very contagious, so as soon as you suspect your child has the disease you will need to keep them at home and away from other people, especially anyone with a compromised immune system. 

It's spread through mucus and saliva, which is why it's more common in the winter months as coughing and sneezing is more prevalent.

Dr Aziz says, "Scarlet fever is extremely contagious and spreads through respiratory droplets during coughing or sneezing and through the direct contact of contaminated surfaces."

Dr Missick also emphasises the importance of taking the prescribed course of treatment from your GP as it will help your child become non-contagious more quickly, "Your child can spread scarlet fever to others until 24 hours after they have had their first dose of antibiotics. If they don’t take antibiotics, they are infectious for 2 to 3 weeks from their symptoms starting."

How long does my child have to stay off school?

If you suspect your child has scarlet fever then the NHS advise keeping them off school and nursery. Even once antibiotics have started to treat the condition they advise staying off for at least a further 24 hours following the first dose of antibiotics, to minimise risk of spreading.

Dr Missick agrees saying, "You should keep your child at home until they’ve been on antibiotics for at least 24 hours and are no longer considered contagious." This advice reflects the current government guidance that states, "children should not return to nursery or school, and adults to work, until a minimum of 24 hours after starting antibiotic treatment."

Sending your child back to school will of course depend on how they’re feeling. If they’re very lethargic and not eating and drinking much then they’re probably not physically up to being in school until this passes. 

Your child’s school should be informed if they are diagnosed with scarlet fever by a GP, as the school will have its own protocols to follow for confirmed cases.

How can I reduce the risk of spreading it?

As well as keeping your child at home, Dr Aziz says there are lots of other ways of preventing the spread of scarlet fever. She recommends maintaining normal good hygiene methods such as washing your hands with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing and covering your mouth at these times too. Children should be encouraged to cover their mouth and nose when sneezing and wash their hands thoroughly with warm water and soap after disposing of their tissue.

She also recommends, "isolating the individual diagnosed with scarlet fever from others, to avoid the spread, at least until they have been commenced on oral antibiotics for a period of 24 hours."

It is also a good idea to avoid sharing things which could be contaminated; like cups, glasses and cutlery, as well as bed linen and towels. Using disinfectant on common surfaces may also reduce the spread.

The UK Health Security Agency states: “You can help stop the spread of infection through frequent hand washing and by not sharing eating utensils, clothes, bedding and towels. All contaminated tissues or handkerchiefs should be washed, or disposed of immediately.

Is scarlet fever dangerous for pregnant women?

​​While scarlet fever is more common in children, adults can still get it - including pregnant people. However, according to the NHS, there's no evidence the condition can put unborn babies at risk.

Dr Patel explains, "There's no evidence to suggest that getting scarlet fever during pregnancy will harm your baby. But it can make you feel unwell, so it's best to avoid close contact with anyone who has it."

The NHS advises contacting your GP if you are pregnant and get symptoms of scarlet fever. 

Their website also states, "Many of the antibiotics used for scarlet fever are considered to be safe to take during pregnancy."

How can I soothe a child that has scarlet fever?

A child with scarlet fever is going to need some extra cuddles and care as they might be feeling quite poorly. 

Dr Missick says, "If your child has a sore throat, drinking cool fluids and [eating] soft foods can help soothe them. Calamine lotion or antihistamine tablets can also be used to reduce itching." Speak to your GP or a pharmacist about which lotions or antihistamine products are suitable for babies and infants.

When should you seek further support?

If you think you or your child has scarlet fever, you should consult your GP.

Complications from scarlet fever are rare and most cases will have no complications at all. 

However, complications can happen during or in the weeks after the infection, and can include (but are not limited to) ear infections, sinusitis, pneumonia and meningitis. Government advice is to keep an eye out for any symptoms which might suggest there are complications in the first few weeks after the main infection has cleared up and, if concerned, seek medical help immediately.

The NHS advises that you should see your GP if you or your child: 

• have scarlet fever symptoms
• do not get better in a week (after seeing a GP)
• have scarlet fever and chickenpox at the same time
• are ill again, weeks after scarlet fever got better – this can be a sign of a complication, such as rheumatic fever
• are feeling unwell and have been in contact with someone who has scarlet fever

You should always seek medical advice if you're worried about your baby or child. Speak to a GP if you are concerned about scarlet fever or possible complications. 

Answers to your frequently asked questions about scarlet fever

The information on GoodTo.com does not constitute medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. Although GoodtoKnow consults a range of medical experts to create and fact-check content, this information is for general purposes only and does not take the place of medical advice. Always seek the guidance of a qualified health professional or seek urgent medical attention if needed.

Our experts

Shingles in children is rare, making it all the more important to get advice from your GP as soon as possible if you think your child has it. 

Shingles is an infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same one that causes chickenpox. However, while chickenpox is a well-known childhood illness and very common for kids under ten years old, shingles is very rare in children. According to Dr José Costa, a senior consultant paediatrician specialising in children’s allergies, roughly 75% of shingles cases occur in people over 45 and, as such, the NHS launched a shingles vaccine programme for the over-65s.

As well as speaking to Dr Costa, we also consulted Dr Catherine Fernando, a GP with a special interest in dermatology, and Dr Geeta Yadav, a dermatologist, for this article and the three doctors shared their best evidence-based advice on shingles in children, as well as answering some frequently asked questions about the infection that causes a rash on the body. 

The information in this article is for general purposes only and does not take the place of medical advice. It is essential to be guided by your GP and you should immediately seek medical attention if symptoms are lingering for a long time, worsen or spread to near the eye, as well as if your child is already immunocompromised. If you are unsure how to manage your child’s shingles - or you’re concerned about their symptoms or a rash that has appeared - then it is crucial to seek personalised advice from a doctor as soon as possible. 

Is there a difference between shingles in children and in adults?

"Shingles in children - as with adults - is the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus," explains Dr Costa. 

"The presentation in children is slightly different to adults," continues Dr Costa. "In adults it begins with a burning pain, itching and hyperesthesia - increased sensation - whilst in children, the rash tends to be mild and not painful. Clusters of small blisters appear in both cases."

Shingles usually follows a clear pattern. "The first sign may be itching or tingling of an area of skin," explains Dr Fernando. "This is followed by the development of a group of little red spots which quickly turn into fluid-filled blisters. The rash is present on only one side of the body, and over the next three to seven days new blisters form before gradually crusting over and completely healing." She adds that most children do not experience much pain during or after shingles, but post-herpetic neuralgia is a well-known, unpleasant complication in adults.

A rash on both the left and right side of the body is unlikely to be shingles. If you are worried about your child and a rash that has appeared, contact your GP immediately.

Do you need to see a doctor for shingles?

Yes, you should see your GP or a doctor as soon as possible if you think your child has shingles. 

Dr Fernando reassures that, "most healthy children do not require any special treatment." However it's important to get your child assessed by a doctor just in case, as Dr Fernando explains, "some groups of children do need antiviral - or acyclovir - therapy to prevent them becoming very sick. This can reduce discomfort and promote faster healing of the rash."

There are also specific groups of children and adults who should seek medical help urgently if they suspect they have shingles. "This includes children who have been treated with steroid tablets - for example asthma - within the preceding three months," says Dr Fernando. "Also, children who are immunocompromised." This includes underlying health conditions - mainly those affecting the immune system - and children with HIV or cancer, those undergoing chemotherapy, or others receiving treatment for childhood arthritis.

Dr Yadav warns, "If shingles occurs on the face or near the eye, that can be more serious and needs to be assessed by a doctor and an ophthalmologist." This also includes eye symptoms like redness, pain and a change in vision. 

There are other scenarios when you should seek urgent medical advice. "If your child has a fever and looks unwell, or you are unsure if the rash is truly from shingles, it is best to take them to their GP," advises Dr Costa. Other worrying symptoms include the rash looking infected - including red, hot and painful characteristics - which may require a course of antibiotics. Additionally, hearing problems, breathing difficulties, severe headaches and pain long after the rash has disappeared should also be things to watch out for.

It is important to trust your instincts as a parent, and if you are at all worried about your child, you should speak to a doctor or your GP immediately.  

What to do if your child gets shingles

The first thing you should do if you think your child has shingles is to seek advice from your child’s doctor. Once you have a diagnosis, the main thing parents can do is help ease a child’s shingles symptoms.

If your child gets shingles you should also inform others you have been in contact with who might not have had chickenpox in the past, or have not been vaccinated against varicella. You should keep your child away from certain groups of people while they have shingles, such as people with a weakened immune system (like someone having chemotherapy), anyone who is pregnant and newborn babies or babies under the age of one month old. You will also need to inform your child’s school that they have shingles and keep them at home until they are no longer contagious. 

Try to encourage your child not to scratch to avoid the rash becoming infected. "The area should be kept clean as it heals," advises Dr Yadav. "Because the blisters can be tender, you may want to use cold compresses or colloidal oatmeal baths to relieve discomfort. Definitely don’t pop the blisters." The NHS recommends making a cool compress out of a bag of ice cubes or frozen vegetables wrapped in a towel or a wet cloth. 

Dr Yadav adds that it’s a good idea to keep the blisters loosely covered - so dress your child in loose fitting clothing - as fabric with rough fibres can irritate the skin. 

"If your child has no other underlying problems or shingles that doesn’t affect the areas around the face or eyes, the best option would be medication to help with the pain," suggests Dr Costa. Get advice from your GP on the best medication for your child. Dr Fernando warns that ibuprofen for shingles has been associated with a rare but serious skin condition, called necrotising fasciitis. Similarly, Dr Costa adds that aspirin should not be given to children under the age of 16, "do not give aspirin, as there is an increased risk of developing Reye’s syndrome - a rare condition that can lead to swelling of the tissues, including the brain."

Is shingles contagious?

You cannot get shingles from someone with shingles or chickenpox. However, you can get chickenpox from someone with shingles - so other children and adults could catch chickenpox from a child (or adult) with shingles if they haven’t had it before.

"Shingles is not caught from someone who has shingles or from someone who has chickenpox, so it would be extremely unlikely for several family members to get it at the same time," says Dr Fernando. "However, a person who has shingles can give chickenpox to someone who has never had chickenpox or hasn’t had the vaccine."

Can a child go to school with shingles?

No, a child with shingles should not go to school until they are no longer infectious.

"The varicella-zoster virus is highly contagious, and a child should not be at school with active shingles lesions - lest you put all of their classmates at risk of developing chickenpox," warns Dr Yadav.

Advice from the NHS reads: "Stay off work or school if the rash is still oozing fluid (weeping) and cannot be covered, or until the rash has dried out. You can only spread the infection to other people while the rash oozes fluid."

Siblings of a child with shingles can continue to go to school as normal provided they feel well and have no symptoms. "It is not necessary for other children from the same household to stay at home or isolate," says Dr Fernando. 

How long does shingles last?

According to the NHS, it can take up to 4 weeks for the shingles rash to heal.

Even once the rash has healed, it can take a while for the discomfort caused by shingles to subside. "After they erupt, these blisters can last for a few weeks but the pain from them can last longer - well after the skin heals," notes Dr Yadav. "They aren’t usually itchy, but pain and burning is typically associated with the eruption."

Dr Costa advises that, "if symptoms have not resolved within 14 days, your child should be seen by their doctor" again. 

Pregnancy and shingles

"Shingles during pregnancy does not pose any risk to the baby," says Dr Fernando. 

"However, if you get shingles shortly before you give birth or in the days afterwards, try to protect your newborn from catching chickenpox by covering the rash and washing your hands often." You should also speak to a GP urgently for advice. 

Dr Costa adds: "If a newborn catches it, in these cases they can develop neonatal chickenpox, which can be dangerous." Seek urgent medical advice in this instance. It is important to note that shingles cannot be spread to an infant through breast milk.

NHS advice on the topic of pregnancy and shingles states: "If you're pregnant and get shingles, it's mostly mild and there's usually no risk to you or your baby. But a GP should arrange for a specialist to advise on whether you need treatment."

Answers to your frequently asked questions about shingles in children

The information on GoodTo.com does not constitute medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. Although GoodtoKnow consults a range of medical experts to create and fact-check content, this information is for general purposes only and does not take the place of medical advice. Always seek the guidance of a qualified health professional or seek urgent medical attention if needed.

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Meningitis is often in the news, whether it's a debate over vaccinations, how best to spot the symptoms or a terrifying, and often tragic, story of someone affected by the infection.

But when it comes to spotting the symptoms of meningitis, do you really know what you're looking for? Are the symptoms of meningitis the same for adults and children, and do you know how to do the 'glass test' on your child?And what is the latest vaccination for it?

What is meningitis?

Meningitis is an infection of the protective membranes (the meninges) that surround the brain and spinal cord.

The meninges are made up of three layers of protective tissue that sit between your skull and your brain.

Meningitis infection causes these membranes to become inflamed which puts pressure on the nerves and brain leading to possible long-term damage or even death.

What types of meningitis are there?

Bacterial Meningitis: This is the most dangerous form of meningitis and is treated as a medical emergency. It is the one we hear about most, because if it's left untreated it can cause severe brain damage and blood poisoning (sepsis).

Viral Meningitis: This is the most common but less serious type of meningitis. More like flu than it's deadly bacterial counterpart, it's caused by viruses that can be spread through coughing, sneezing and poor hygiene.

Who does meningitis effect?

Bacterial Meningitis: It most commonly affects children under five years old, and particularly babies less than 12 months old. It's also common in teenagers aged 15 to 19 years old.

Viral Meningitis: This is found most commonly in children and becomes more widespread in the summer months.

How common is meningitis?

Bacterial Meningitis: In 2011 to 2012 there were 2,350 cases of bacterial meningitis in the United Kingdom. The number of cases has dropped since the introduction of vaccines for all newborn babies began in September 2015.

Viral Meningitis: It is difficult to estimate how many cases of viral meningitis there are each year because symptoms are often so mild they are treated or mistaken for flu and people are never even admitted to hospital.

What are the symptoms of meningitis?

The most well-known symptom of meningitis in babies and young children is the body rash.

You should always note that this is hard to see on dark skin so you should be looking at paler areas like palms of hands and on the soles of feet.

These are the symptoms that the NHS tells parents to look out for:

• High fever, with cold hands and feet • Vomiting and refuse to feed • Feeling agitated and not wanting to be picked up • Drowsy, floppy and unresponsive • Grunting or breathing rapidly • Unusual high-pitched or moaning cry • Pale, blotchy skin, and a red rash that doesn't fade when a glass is rolled over it • Tense, bulging soft spot on their head • Stiff neck and dislike of bright lights • Convulsions or seizures

For older children, teenagers and adults, the symptoms may differ slightly and in addition to those listed above look out for: • Difficulty waking up • Severe muscle pain • Sensitivity to light

How can I be sure it is meningitis?

If you suspect a rash could be meningitis then you should do the glass test.

Press the side of a clear glass tumbler firmly against the skin where the rash is present and if the rash doesn't fade then it's a sign of meningococcal septicaemia (blood poisoning of the meninges membranes).

If your rash develops into purple bruising this can also be a sign of sepsis.

Should I take my child to hospital straight away?

Although it is the most commonly recognised symptom, a rash might not be the first symptom to appear so if you see other symptoms listed above, you shouldn't wait for a rash to develop.

The symptoms listed above can appear in any order and some may not appear at all during the illness.

If you have done the glass test and the rash has not faded then seek emergency medical help at your local Accident and Emergency department.

How will the doctors diagnose meningitis?

Meningitis is notoriously difficult to diagnose for several reasons; firstly it is quick onset and develops fast, secondly it can easily be mistaken for flu or a cold as many of the symptoms overlap.

When you get to hospital the doctors will carry out a physical examination to look for signs of meningitis (as listed above) such as the rash or indications of septicaemia.

Diagnosis may include: • Blood test • Lumbar puncture - a sample of fluid from around the base of the spine is taken with a needle whilst under local anaesthetic. • CT scan to look for brain damage or inflammation • Chest X-ray to look for signs of infection

What are the causes of Meningitis?

As described above, there are two types of meningitis - bacterial and viral.

Bacterial causes can vary depending on the type of bacteria involved, but they include: • Sneezing • Coughing • Kissing • Sharing utensils (such as cutlery) • Sharing personal possessions (cigarettes or a toothbrush)

There is a small chance of widespread outbreak in close proximity living such as: • Boarding schools • University campuses • Military bases • Student housing

A leading cause of viral meningitis used to be mumps, but the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine has provided most children with immunity against the disease.

What are the treatments for meningitis?

Bacterial meningitis: Treated in hospital with antibiotics administered intravenously (with a drip through a vein in the arm), oxygen and steroids to help reduce brain swelling.

Admission to hospital is necessary if you suspect bacterial meningitis. Severe cases are kept in intensive care units so that the vital functions may be monitored.

Viral meningitis: Usually gets better within a couple of weeks, this is the less serious version of meningitis and often people aren't aware they have contracted the disease. Take lots of rest, painkillers for headache and other symptoms like joint ache. This should usually pass quickly.

Is there a vaccination for meningitis?

Currently, a vaccine is available on the NHS for babies aged two months, followed by a second dose at four months and a booster at 12 months.

Parents of older children have been able to pay privately for the vaccine (costs of which can be around £750 for a course of three jabs), but due to shortages many children over 12 months have been unable to get the jab for three months.

Boots announced they would reintroduce a limited quantity of the Meningococcal (meningitis B) vaccination for under 5's. The service was launched in November 2015 and offered at £95 per dose.

This vaccine is administered in three stages - two months, four months and 12 months, and is free on the NHS as part of the routine immunisation schedule for newborns.

Toddlers, teenagers and adults are not currently vaccinated as routine.

Meningitis in the news

Retired England rugby player Matt Dawson revealed his family's agonising 'two weeks of hell' as his son was treated for Meningitis B.

Toddler Sam Dawson recovered from his battle with the disease at Great Ormond Street Hospital in London.

Matt said he had been 'umming and ahhing' about posting the pictures online but he and his wife Carolin Hauskeller, who he married in 2011, decided it was important to raise awareness.

The father-of-two decided to speak out after a petition calling for all children, not just newborn babies, to be vaccinated gained over 820,000 signatures.

The petition started when two-year-old Faye Burdett, from Maidstone in Kent, died from meningitis B only 11 days after her parents first spotted the rash on her forehead.

Mum Jenny, 36, a beauty therapist, said; 'We were given a 1% survival rate but she proved them wrong and carried on fighting, after a few days she seemed to have turned a corner but the sepsis started to effect her more.'

In 2010, model and Capital Radio presenter Lisa Snowdon was diagnosed with viral meningitis after feeling faint at the Christmas light switch-on at Bond Street. A friend told the Daily Mail; 'She just fell apart and she went to the doctor and was immediately checked into hospital... they then diagnosed her with viral meningitis.'

Vaccination almost successfully wiped out measles in the UK seven years ago, but as the uptake of the MMR vaccine has begun to decline, cases are now rising around the country, putting children at risk.

Last year the UK Health Security Agency reported a resurgence in measles, with 368 confirmed laboratory cases in England. This resurgence, among young children under the age of 10 especially, has continued into 2024, with the latest data showing that the total number of confirmed measles cases since 1 October 2023 has risen to 733.

According to the NHS, one in every 15 children with measles will develop more serious complications. These can include ear and chest infections, fits, diarrhoea, encephalitis (infection of the brain), pneumonia and brain damage.

Meningitis, blindness and even death are also among the possible complications of measles and so it is recommended that all children, and unvaccinated adults, receive the MMR vaccine. The MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine is offered to all children for free on the NHS as part of the UK’s national immunisation programme and is the best way of preventing the disease among young children. Two doses will provide lifelong immunity to measles, mumps and rubella.

Dr Claire Merrifield (MRCGP), who is an NHS GP and medical director at health check-up firm Selph, explains, "Vaccination almost successfully wiped out measles in the UK in 2016 and 2017. Globally, there are still large outbreaks of the virus and as the uptake of the MMR vaccine has declined in the UK, children and young adults are at greater risk of contracting the disease."

Alongside Dr Merrifield, NHS GP Dr Alexis Missick (MRCGP) and NHS GP Dr Hana Patel (FRCGP) also shared their evidence-based advice with us about measles and answered some of the most common questions parents have about the highly contagious infection. 

The information in this article is for general purposes only and does not take the place of medical advice. If you suspect your child has measles but haven’t had a diagnosis, speak to your GP immediately. If you've been in close contact with someone who has measles and you're pregnant, have a weakened immune system or you have a child under one, ask for an urgent GP appointment.

As a parent, you know your child better than anyone and you should always trust your own judgement. If you are worried about your child, contact your GP or call the NHS on 111. In a medical emergency, call 999.

What is measles?

Measles is a viral infection which is easily spread to other people when an infected person breathes, coughs or sneezes. It usually starts with symptoms similar to a cough and cold such as a high temperature, sneezing, runny nose and cough. However, the most obvious symptom of measles is the rash that will appear a few days after the first symptoms. The rash will usually start on the face before spreading to the rest of the body. 

Dr Patel says, “The rash is made up of small red-brown, flat or slightly raised spots that may join together into larger blotchy patches and usually first appears on the head or neck, before spreading outwards to the rest of the body and can be slightly itchy for some people.” Your child may also have small, white spots on the inside of their cheeks and lips. 

Dr Merrifield explains, "Children with measles will typically be unwell for around a week with a fever, cough, blocked nose, itchy eyes and a rash.” See advice from the NHS for a full list of measles symptoms and pictures of the measles rash. 

How contagious is measles?

Measles is very contagious. Dr Missick explains, "Someone can catch measles by being in a room that someone with measles has been in, even two hours after that person has left the room."

The highly infectious airborne disease is spread through the respiratory droplets released when a person talks, sneezes or coughs. Dr Merrifield explains, "One person can infect up to 90% of the people who come into contact with them unless they are immune. Measles is contagious from 4 days before the rash develops until around 4 days after the rash has appeared. The virus can survive in the air for up to 2 hours after an infected person leaves the area." 

Dr Patel says, "Most people show symptoms after about 10 days of being exposed to measles (this is called the incubation period)." She says you will need to self-isolate if you’re showing symptoms.

The NHS states, "Anyone can get measles if they haven’t been vaccinated or they haven’t had it before. It’s most common in young children."

Can newborns get measles?

Dr Missick says, "If the mother is immune to measles, her maternal antibodies will be passed on during pregnancy. However, this protection reduces over time, meaning the baby should get vaccinated when possible." The first childhood MMR vaccine isn’t given until an infant is 12 months old so there is a risk that a newborn baby could catch measles if their parents or siblings are unvaccinated and catch the virus. 

Dr Merrifield says, "As their immune system is not fully developed, it’s important to get medical advice immediately if measles is suspected in a newborn or a newborn has come into contact with someone with measles."

The NHS advises getting an urgent GP appointment if your child is under one years old and has come into contact with someone who has measles. 

What should I do if my child has measles?

Ask for an urgent GP appointment if you think you or your child may have measles. As measles can be spread easily you should call your GP or doctor’s surgery first before taking your child in, as the surgery may suggest a phone consultation first.

After speaking to your GP or a doctor you should also inform your child’s school or nursery immediately. Measles is incredibly contagious, and so you will need to keep your child at home until they have made a full recovery. Newborn babies, pregnant women and people with a lowered immune system should not be exposed to the illness, so keep your child away from anyone at risk in your household (such as younger siblings and babies) while you are isolating. 

If you are looking after a child who has measles you should wash your hands often with soap and warm water to try and prevent the spread of the infection. The NHS also recommends keeping cutlery, cups, towels, clothes and bedding used by a child infected with measles separate from other members of the household. This is especially important if anyone in your household is vulnerable or unvaccinated. 

It’s also important that you inform anyone who has come into contact with your child recently. This is especially important for the vulnerable groups of people we’ve mentioned above - such as anyone who is pregnant, babies and young children or anyone with a weakened immune system.

What can I do to soothe a child with measles?

After seeing your GP, there are things that parents can do to help soothe their child if they have measles. Your child might be feeling quite poorly so they will need a lot of extra cuddles and care. Dr Missick says it’s important to make sure they stay well hydrated and give them paracetamol or ibuprofen to keep their temperature down. 

Your child will probably be ill for around a week or up to 10 days with the cold symptoms and rash. Dr Merrifield says, "If their eyes are particularly sticky, you can use warm water and clean cotton wool to wipe from the inside to the outside of the eye."

The NHS also suggests closing the curtains to help reduce symptoms of light sensitivity in anyone who is unwell. 

When can a child return to school or daycare after measles?

Your child should get better after a week but, of course, every case is different. Even once the rash has faded, your child may still be very tired and need a bit more time to recuperate at home.

Dr Merrifield says, "Children are advised to stay off school from 4 days before the onset of the rash and for a full 4 days after the rash starts. It’s advisable to wait for your child to make a full recovery before sending them back to school as they are more likely to get other infections while still recovering from the measles infection."

Nurseries and schools will have their own restrictions and protocols when it comes to measles so it’s always worth checking with them after getting advice from your GP.

Measles and pregnancy

If you’re unvaccinated and catch measles while you’re pregnant it can harm your baby. There is a risk of miscarriage or stillbirth, premature birth (before week 37 of pregnancy) and low birthweight. Tell your GP immediately if you are unvaccinated and think you have been exposed to the measles virus, even if you don’t feel unwell. Dr Patel says, "Your treatment for measles will depend upon how unwell you are and when you first started having symptoms. If you need to be admitted to hospital you will be cared for in a side room to keep other patients safe."

It’s possible to have a blood test to check if you have antibodies and immunity to measles but you cannot receive the MMR vaccine during your pregnancy because it is a live virus vaccine. 

Dr Merrifield says, "Measles can be very dangerous in pregnancy. Seek immediate medical advice if you are pregnant and caring for a child with suspected measles. There are some medications that may be advised if you have been exposed to measles while pregnant to reduce the risk of pregnancy complications."

The NHS website states: "It's important to get medical advice if you're pregnant and have been in close contact with someone who has measles."

How can I prevent measles?

Having the MMR vaccine is the best way to prevent measles. It is given in two doses - the first dose is given at 12 months old and the second is given after the child is 3 years and 4 months old.

"If someone has missed a dose or is unsure if they have had any vaccinations, the vaccine can be given at any age. Parents and guardians can check their child’s red book for their vaccination records," the UK Health Security Agency says.

It adds, "Pregnant women or people with weakened immune systems should not have the vaccine. If they think they have had contact with someone with measles they should speak to their GP or midwife for further advice."

Speak to your GP if you have any questions about both the vaccine and measles. 

Doctors answer frequently asked questions about measles

The information on GoodTo.com does not constitute medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. Although GoodtoKnow consults a range of medical experts to create and fact-check content, this information is for general purposes only and does not take the place of medical advice. Always seek the guidance of a qualified health professional or seek urgent medical attention if needed.

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