07/12/2025
Knowing when to worry about your child’s fever can be stressful. The Traffic Light System helps parents recognise when a child might need medical attention.
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🟢 GREEN – Low Risk
These signs suggest your child is likely okay, but monitor them closely:
• Alert and responsive
• Normal skin colour
• Drinking well / good wet nappies
• Mild symptoms (cough, runny nose)
👉 Care at home, give fluids, use paracetamol/ibuprofen for comfort.
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🟡 AMBER – Moderate Risk
These signs mean you should seek medical advice:
• Drowsy, irritable, not their usual self
• Breathing faster or working harder to breathe
• Poor feeding or fewer wet nappies
• Temperature >39°C in children 3–6 months
• Shivering, persistent crying
• Rash that fades when pressed
👉 Call your GP, urgent care, or seek same-day medical review.
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🔴 RED – High Risk (Emergency)
Seek urgent care / go to A&E if your child has:
• Pale, blue, or mottled skin
• Difficult or noisy breathing
• Very drowsy or unresponsive
• A rash that does NOT fade with pressure
• Seizures
• Fever in a baby under 3 months (>38°C)
👉 This is an emergency — get medical help immediately.
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(This is not an exhaustive list of every symptom)
💡 Remember: Trust your instincts. If you’re worried, it’s always okay to seek medical advice.
