It is always a worry when a child becomes unwell, but it is not always obvious how to care for them and whether you should keep them at home. You can now find handy NHS guidance in one place online that will help you identify a possible condition, so you can decide whether to send your child to school or nursery.

On the website is a list of common childhood illnesses and conditions from conjunctivitis to head lice, as well as symptoms such as a high temperature and a sore throat and what these might mean. There is advice about what to do and when a child should return to education after being treated.

Visit the Should your child go to school/nursery today? website at https://what0-18.nhs.uk/parentscarers/child-unwell-ok-go-nurseryschool-1 or go online and search for '0-18 should child go to school'. Please bookmark this website so it is easy to find if ever your child becomes unwell.

If you are unsure about a child s wellbeing, please talk to your local pharmacist, call the NHS helpline on 111, or contact your GP.

The guidance has been created by the County Council, with the NHS and local authority partners through the Healthier Together initiative, which aims to improve the health of children and young people in Dorset, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.