PARENTS and carers have been reminded to make sure they know how to deal with common childhood illnesses as winter continues.

Young children are more vulnerable to coughs, colds and infections because their immune system is still developing.

An adult may get two to four colds a year, but children can get eight to 12 - and most of these can be treated at home with over the counter medication and rest.

It can be difficult to know the best way to care for children when they become ill but Dr Phil Huxley, chair at East Lancashire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), said most of the time childhood illness can be managed at home with advice from pharmacists and lots of rest.

Colds and bugs can be managed with pain relief, oral rehydration solution and cough mixture.

He said: ‘’Speak to your local pharmacist as a first point of call. They can advise on the appropriate over the counter medicines that are suitable for your child’s age.

"If you continue to have concerns and want to talk to someone, call NHS 111 to speak to one of our trained advisers.”

For more advice on staying well this winter, visit www.nhs.uk/staywell