• Don’t smoke. If you can, stop. If you can’t, cut down.
• Follow a balanced diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables
• Keep physically active
• Manage stress by talking things through and taking time to relax
• If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation
• Cover up in the sun and protect children from sunburn
• Practice safe sex
• Take up cancer screening opportunities

Please note that this is general advice only and NOT a substitute for seeing your doctor. If you have any further concerns please seek attention from your GP.

Fever accompanies many childhood illnesses. Bringing the fever down will help your child feel better. Give paracetamol (e.g. “Calpol” or ibuprofen (“Nurofen”)) and plenty of fluids. If necessary, sponge your child down with a tepid towel. If the temperature does not come down or you are worried, contact the doctor or health visitor.

Coughs and Sore Throats are often caused by viral infections which get better in a few days on their own. Paracetamol will help any temperature and discomfort. Most rashes in children are caused by viral illnesses and get better by themselves.

Meningitis is rare, but serious. Most people are aware of the classic symptoms of meningitis – headache, neck stiffness, sensitivity to light, a rash that does not change colour or disappear when a glass is placed against it. In addition, recent research has identified other early signs which may be present - child won’t walk or stand, cold hands and feet in feverish child, skin very pale, perhaps blue or dusky around the lips. If your child displays any of these symptoms seek immediate medical attention.