ABSTRACT
In children particularly, it is essential that an accurate diagnosis is made to ensure
correct and appropriate treatment on the grounds of safety. Whether it is a simple
upper respiratory infection, teething or otitis media, it is always imperative that
more serious pathology is considered. Children have the capacity to get better very
quickly, but equally can become ill very quickly. Parents’ instincts and observation
must always be taken into account. This cannot be emphasised enough, especially
in conditions as serious as meningococcal disease. Doctors and parents on a constant
‘alert’ can be life saving. At the same time it is important to keep a sensible balance;
the basic principle initially is ‘common things commonest.’
