Whilst children can get coronavirus, the risk for this being a serious illness is low. Therefore if your child is ill it is likely to be a non-coronavirus illness.
It is important to follow government and NHS guidance to stay at home during this period, but it can be confusing to know what to do when your child is unwell or injured. That is why the NHS has produced a COVID-19 guide for parents. The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health have also developed a one page guide for parents to use at this time to recognise where to go for medical help.
If your child has symptoms of Coronavirus (a new, continuous cough and/or high temperature) DO NOT go to a GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital.
Use the NHS 111 online coronavirus service for urgent advice:
For injuries and other illnesses
If you are worried about your child, especially if they have an existing condition, please call your GP or NHS 111, then take your child to the nearest A&E.
Here is some advice to help:
If your child has any of the following - you need urgent help: go to the nearest A&E department or phone 999.
If your child has any of the following - you need to contact a doctor or nurse today. Please ring your GP surgery or call NHS 111 - dial 111.
If symptoms persist for four hours or more and you have not been able to speak to either a GP or 111, then take your child to the nearest A&E.
If none of the above features are present:
You can continue to provide your childcare at home using information available on NHS Choices.
Additional advice for parents is available below:
Families for coping with crying of well babies
Children with complex health needs and disabilities
Tower Hamlets Together have created a Care Confident booklet to support parents with children under-five. The booklet helps parents understand the signs and symptoms of the common childhood illnesses and is available in English and Bengali.