Babies and young children are at increased risk of heat-related illness. This is because they are less able to control their own body temperature and make choices to stop themselves overheating.
Babies and young children require particular care to make sure their health is protected during hot weather. Most important is that babies and young children stay cool and drink regularly.
It is not always easy to tell if your baby or young child is affected by hot weather.
During hot weather it’s important to regularly check for the following signs which can indicate that a baby or young child’s health is being affected.
Symptoms of mild dehydration or heat-related illness may include:
Symptoms of severe dehydration or heat-related illness may include:
If your baby or young child has symptoms of severe dehydration or heat-related illness, call triple zero (000) and ask for an ambulance.
If your baby has symptoms of mild dehydration and you are worried, see your doctor or phone healthdirect on 1800 022 222 for health information and advice 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Learn about the signs, symptoms and first aid for heat-related health problems including heat exhaustion, heat stress and heat rash.