Ambulance 912HAP 9252
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General health information

Common cold

A common cold is a contagious viral infection of the nose and throat that usually improves on its own within one to two weeks, although a cough may last longer. Rest, fluids and saline nose drops may ease symptoms; antibiotics do not help, and breathlessness, drowsiness, dehydration or illness in a very young baby needs prompt assessment.

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A common cold is a contagious viral infection of the nose and throat that usually improves on its own within one to two weeks, although a cough may last longer. Rest, fluids and saline nose drops may ease symptoms; antibiotics do not help, and breathlessness, drowsiness, dehydration or illness in a very young baby needs prompt assessment.

  • A runny or blocked nose, sneezing and watery mucus that may later become thicker or coloured.
  • A scratchy throat, hoarseness, mild headache and pressure around the nose or ears.
  • Drink regularly, rest as needed and gradually resume activities once fever has gone and your strength returns.
  • Ventilate indoor spaces, wash hands and cough or sneeze into your elbow; keep away from vulnerable people while you are clearly ill and contagious.
  • Call the same day for breathlessness, wheezing, fast or laboured breathing, persistent high fever, drowsiness, dehydration or clear deterioration after initial improvement.
  • For urgent GP care outside normal opening hours, call HAP 9252. Call Ambulance 912 only for an immediately life-threatening situation.

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Hand, foot and mouth diseaseHand, foot and mouth disease is a viral infection that mainly affects young children. It often starts with a fever, sore throat or loss of appetite, followed by painful mouth ulcers and blisters or spots on the hands and feet. The illness usually clears up on its own, but a sore mouth can make drinking difficult. Watch closely for dehydration, unusual drowsiness and difficulty breathing.
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Sore throatA sore throat is often caused by a virus and usually clears up on its own. However, watch for difficulty breathing, drooling, inability to swallow, dehydration, a muffled voice, a uvula pulled to one side or marked swelling on one side of the throat. These may indicate a more serious infection or an abscess. Rest, fluids and soft food often help, but a doctor needs to assess warning signs promptly.
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Cradle capCradle cap is a harmless, common skin condition in babies that causes greasy white or yellow flakes, mainly on the scalp. It is not contagious and usually clears on its own within a few months.