Infants and young children can quickly become unwell. When families get help early, the outcome is better.

NOTE: if your child is seriously unwell, get medical attention immediately

Note that:

• when children are sick, they can rapidly worsen and they should, therefore, be checked often
• it is important to keep up fluid intake when children are unwell, even if they lose interest in eating.

The Well Child / Tamariki Ora Health Book contains information about recognising child illnesses. For health information and resources on common diseases and illnesses, see:

• www.health.govt.nz/your-health/conditions-and-treatments/diseases-and-illnesses

For answers to questions about infectious diseases, see:

• www.kidshealth.org.nz/infectious-diseases

Healthline is a free phone service available to all New Zealanders. They provide health advice for all the family 24 hrs a day. 

call Healthline on 0800 611 116