Vomiting, diarrhoea and an unexplained temperature are regular causes of worry. Raised temperatures are usually a sign of infection. Inflamed eardrums are a common cause, but lung problems create more anxiety. Temperatures associated with rashes need a doctor’s opinion.

Vomiting warrants medical intervention if there are any symptoms suggesting meningitis, intestinal obstruction or gastroenteritis causing dehydration. Appendicitis is a possibility. The vomit of intestinal obstruction is likely to be greenish or yellow. If vomiting persists for more than 12 hours or is associated with abdominal pain for more than three, medical help is needed. Signs of dehydration need the opinion of a doctor. Rehydrating fluid is made by adding 2 tsp of sugar to a full tumbler of water with a small pinch of salt. The same solution can treat dehydration from diarrhoea.

The possibility of vomiting as a result of meningitis or meningococcal septicaemia is a constant anxiety. Vomiting, fever, irritability, drowsiness or restlessness, dislike of light, rigidity, abnormally cold extremities, fever and a rash starting as small pink spots that don’t fade when pressed under a tumbler and later extending to bruises are classic signs. Not all will be present, and the rash isn’t essential for a diagnosis.