12 months Never

SCARLET FEVER ITCHY RASHES give your baby aspirin for a fever because this could lead to Reye’s syndrome that although rare, can be fatal

viral infection causes a fine rash of independent flat red or pink spots that fade with when you press on them all over the body. The rash appears abruptly after the baby has had a high temperature for a few days. The best thing to do with this rash is to control your baby’s temperature to prevent febrile convulsions. You can do this using infant paracetamol at the correct prescribed doses. This is a bacterial infection that begins with vomiting, fever and a sore throat. The namesake bright red rash of small spots begins on the chest and neck and then spreads all over the body, especially affecting the face, groin and under arms. The skin is eventually left rough and starts peeling. You’ll also notice that your baby has a typical bright red tongue – almost as if he’s been eating strawberries – and be thoroughly miserable for a few days.

The more serious symptoms last for about a week, before tapering off to a runny nose that generally persists for longer. Before the days of antibiotics, rheumatic fever was a common complication of scarlet fever, but a visit to the doctor for medication will guarantee this does not happen. Rashes that itch are particularly stressful for young babies who become easily irritable – especially at night. What’s more, scratching often causes secondary infections that can leave scars. Soothing the irritation is key in treating these kinds of rashes. has been performed,” he says. “Atopic eczema is inherited and a family history of hayfever or asthma is the rule. The presentation is variable with different areas being involved at different ages. Itch is the hallmark of the condition and secondary infection due to scratching is common. Advice on treatment from your doctor is recommended and use of moisturisers is essential.”