The great majority of childhood illnesses are minor, familiar, and pass without lasting effect, even though a handful deserve a closer look. Chickenpox brings on an itchy, spotty rash that generally clears within one to two weeks. Measles and mumps are now far rarer thanks to the MMR vaccine, but they're still around and spread easily, so keeping vaccinations current is worthwhile. Colic - a spell of frequent crying in an otherwise well baby - is extremely common in the early months and usually eases by around four to six months.
Parents generally have a good sense of when something isn't right, and that instinct is worth trusting. Get in touch with a GP, call NHS 111, or head to A&E or dial 999 in an emergency, if a child seems seriously unwell, has a persistent high fever, becomes unusually floppy or difficult to rouse, has trouble breathing, or you're simply concerned.
Common questions
Is it normal for a young baby to cry a lot?
Frequent crying in an otherwise healthy baby - often called colic - is common during the first months of life and tends to settle by four to six months old.
When does a poorly child need to see a doctor urgently?
Contact a GP, NHS 111 or, in an emergency, 999, if a child seems seriously unwell, has a fever that will not come down, becomes unusually floppy, or struggles to breathe.