Children fall ill at the most inconvenient times: late at night, on public holidays, or when you are far from a pharmacy. A well-stocked home kit helps you respond calmly while you decide whether a doctor is needed.
What to keep at home
- Paediatric paracetamol syrup for fever and pain, dosed by your child's age and weight
- Oral rehydration salts (ORS) and zinc for diarrhoea
- A digital thermometer
- Saline nasal drops for blocked noses
- Antiseptic solution, sterile gauze, plasters and crepe bandages
- Calamine lotion for itching and insect bites
- A children's multivitamin recommended by your pharmacist
- Anti-malarial medication only as prescribed after testing
- Mosquito repellent suitable for children
- A written list of emergency numbers and your child's allergies
Use them safely
Always use the measuring spoon or syringe that comes with the medicine, check expiry dates every few months, and store everything out of children's reach. Never give adult medicines to children.
Seek medical care immediately for a fever in a baby under 3 months, difficulty breathing, convulsions, persistent vomiting, or a child who is unusually drowsy. When in doubt, speak to one of our pharmacists.
This article is general information, not a diagnosis.
For advice about your own health or medicines, speak to one of our pharmacists. It's free.
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