When to call 111 or go to A&E: danger signs in babies
Knowing when a baby needs urgent medical attention is one of the most important things a parent can learn. Babies cannot tell you what is wrong, and some serious conditions can develop quickly. This guide, based on NHS guidance, sets out clearly which signs mean call 111, which mean go to A&E, and which mean call 999 without delay. When in doubt, always seek help straightaway.
Call 999 immediately for these signs
Some symptoms in a baby need the emergency services right now. Do not wait to see if things improve. Call 999 if your baby shows any of the following:
- A rash that does not fade when you press a glass against it. Press a clear glass firmly onto the skin. If the rash stays visible through the glass rather than fading, this is a medical emergency.
- A stiff neck. If your baby's neck feels rigid and they resist or seem unable to move it normally, call 999.
- Sensitivity to light. If your baby seems distressed or reacts unusually to normal light levels, this needs emergency attention.
- A fit (febrile seizure) happening for the first time. If your baby cannot stop shaking, call 999 immediately.
- Difficulty breathing. This includes making grunting noises while breathing, or the stomach visibly sucking under the ribcage with each breath.
- Skin colour changes. A baby whose skin has turned blue, grey, paler than usual, or blotchy needs emergency care right away.
- Unusually cold hands and feet alongside other signs of illness should prompt an immediate 999 call.
- Drowsiness that is hard to wake from. If your baby is unusually difficult to rouse, do not wait.
- Extreme agitation or confusion. A baby who does not stop crying despite all attempts to soothe, or who seems confused, needs urgent assessment.
- Unresponsiveness or no interest in feeding. If your baby seems unresponsive or has completely lost interest in feeding, call 999.
When to call 111
NHS 111 is available around the clock, seven days a week. For babies under 5 years old you need to phone rather than use the online service. Call 111 in any of these situations:
Temperature thresholds by age
A high temperature in a baby is defined as 38C or more. How you respond depends on your baby's age:
- Under 3 months old: Call 111 if your baby's temperature reaches 38C or higher. Even a modest fever at this age needs prompt medical advice.
- 3 to 6 months old: Call 111 if your baby's temperature reaches 39C or higher.
Other reasons to call 111
- Your baby has a high temperature alongside other signs of illness, such as a rash appearing with the fever.
- Your baby shows signs of dehydration: nappies that are not very wet, sunken-looking eyes, or no tears when they are crying.
- Your baby has had a high temperature for 5 days or more, even if they seem otherwise well. A fever usually clears within 1 to 4 days, so anything beyond that needs attention.
- Your baby does not want to eat, is not their usual self, and you are worried.
Understanding the glass test for rashes
The glass test is a widely recommended way to check a rash during a fever. Take a clear glass and press it firmly against the rash. If the rash fades and you can no longer see it clearly through the glass, it is less likely to be serious, though you should still seek advice if your baby is unwell. If the rash stays visible through the glass and does not fade under pressure, call 999 immediately. This sign can indicate a serious blood infection and needs emergency care without delay.
Fever basics: what to know
A temperature of 38C or above counts as a high temperature in babies. Most fevers in babies are caused by common infections and clear up within 1 to 4 days. However, some situations mean you need professional help sooner rather than later. The guidance above sets out when that threshold is crossed.
While you are waiting for advice or help, keep your baby as comfortable as possible. Do not over-wrap them or put them in a very warm room. If you are unsure, call 111 rather than waiting.
Signs of dehydration to watch for
Dehydration can develop quickly in young babies during a fever. The NHS identifies these warning signs that mean you should call 111:
- Nappies that are noticeably less wet than normal
- Eyes that look sunken
- No tears when your baby is crying
Dehydration in babies can become serious quickly. If you spot these signs alongside a fever, do not wait to see if things improve on their own.
Trust your instincts
Parents and carers often notice that something is wrong with their baby before they can put it into words. If you feel that your baby is seriously unwell, trust that feeling. NHS guidance is clear that you should call if you are worried, even if none of the specific signs above are present. It is always better to call 111 and be reassured than to wait and let a condition worsen.
Remember that 999 is for life-threatening emergencies. If you are not sure whether something is an emergency, calling 111 first is the right step and they will direct you to the appropriate service, which may include A&E if that is what your baby needs.
Frequently asked questions
At what temperature should I call 111 for my baby?
For babies under 3 months old, call 111 if their temperature reaches 38C or higher. For babies aged 3 to 6 months, call 111 if their temperature reaches 39C or higher. If you are worried at any point, call regardless of the exact reading.
What are the signs of meningitis in a baby?
Key warning signs based on NHS guidance include a rash that does not fade when you press a glass against it, a stiff neck, and sensitivity to light. Changes to skin colour such as blotchy, blue or grey patches are also urgent signs. Any of these means call 999 immediately.
What should I do if my baby has a febrile seizure?
If your baby has a fit (febrile seizure) for the first time and cannot stop shaking, call 999 straight away. This is treated as an emergency by the NHS and needs immediate attention.
When should I call 111 for a baby with a fever and no other symptoms?
Call 111 if your baby has had a high temperature for 5 days or more, even if they seem otherwise well. Most fevers resolve within 1 to 4 days, so anything lasting longer needs medical advice. Also call if your baby is not their usual self and you are worried.
What breathing signs in a baby need emergency help?
Call 999 if your baby is having difficulty breathing, is making grunting noises while breathing, or if you can see their stomach sucking under their ribcage with each breath. These are signs of serious respiratory distress and need immediate emergency care.
Keep track of everything in one calm place
Cubby tracks feeds, sleep, nappies and your country's vaccine schedule, shared with everyone who cares for your little one.
Start free