Babies

Immunisation: Fever sometimes follows routine immunisation in children. Follow the steps to bring down a fever. Unless your child seems particularly distressed, you can wait until your next visit to mention this reaction to your GP.

Viral or bacterial infection: May be the cause of a fever in babies under 6 months old. See a doctor; follow steps.

Middle-ear infections: Common in children over 6 months old and often follow a cold. Antibiotics may be prescribed. Warning signs include waking in the night apparently in pain.

Bronchiolitis: This viral infection of the airways causes fast breathing and is fairly common in children. Call the doctor immediately.

Children or adults

Cold: Fever accompanied by a runny nose usually signifies a cold. Follow steps to bring down the fever. If symptoms don’t improve within 24 hours, or if any sort of rash appears, call the doctor.

Bronchitis: An inflammation of the airways that is often accompanied by coughing up dark yellow sputum. Common in adults and no medical treatment is usually necessary. However, a doctor should be consulted if breathlessness becomes severe.

Croup: This viral infection, common in childhood, causes the throat to become swollen, causing breathing difficulties. Call the doctor immediately - he or she may prescribe inhaled corticosteroids.

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