Inform Parents about Danger Signs

Children nursed at home need to be monitored daily by parents/guardians for appearance of new or worsening of symptoms that suggest complications. Children should be brought to the nearest hospital for further assessment if they developed the following symptoms and signs: 

1.     Lethargy or poor oral intake

2.     Change in mental status or behaviour eg. drowsiness, irritability

3.     Signs of dehydration: sunken eyes, dry tongue, absence of tears during crying or poor urine output

4.     Increasing respiratory rate (fast breathing), noisy breathing, presence of chest recession

5.     Fits.

6.     Cyanosis

7.     Persistent fever > 3 days

Source: Based on MOH guidelines & Management Guideline for Influenza A-H1N1 for Paediatric Patients

Dato Dr Amar-Singh HSS

Consultant Community Pediatrician