Parents and carers can now find advice at their fingertips on common childhood illnesses.

Healthcare professionals in Washington have developed an app aimed at people looking after young children, as well as those about to become parents.

It gives easy-to-understand guidance on common ailments affecting children, as well as advice on when and where to seek further treatment.

The app, which is also available as a 64-page booklet, has been created by the Washington Locality in association with NHS Sunderland Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG).

Download the CCG Common Childhood Illnesses booklet

Jackie Russell, practice manager at Rickleton Medical Centre in Washington, said: “We know that when you are caring for children, especially babies and the very young, you can feel apprehensive when your children become ill.

“You may worry that you do not have the knowledge or skills to deal with the situation, making the correct diagnosis and providing the right treatment. This new app, and the booklet, will give you the confidence to identify the problem and the correct response to make your child better quickly.”

Dr Ian Pattison, Clinical Chair at Sunderland CCG, added: “This is a great app which deals with all common childhood illnesses, and more serious ones, and tells you how you can prevent accidents as well as handle them should they happen.

“It is written in a clear and easy-to-understand style and should be the first place you look for help if your child becomes unwell.

“It can also help you if you are wondering whether or not you need to take your child to your GP, pharmacist or A&E department.

“The majority of common childhood illnesses can safely be dealt with at home but occasionally you may need to get professional help. The app and booklet will tell where you should go for the quickest and best help for your child.”

All parents with children under the age of five can get a copy of the booklet from their GP surgery, health visitor, nursery, walk-in centre or A&E department.