Allergies happen when your child's immune system mistakenly treats normally harmless substances as 'harmful'. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening allergic reaction which needs urgent medical treatment.
Animal bites from dogs and cats are common, especially in tamariki. If your child has had an animal bite, see a healthcare provider as soon as possible. They may need treatment.
Many electronic toys and devices have button batteries. They are very dangerous for young children if swallowed or put in nostrils or ears. Go straight to your nearest hospital if you think this has happened.
Bee stings can cause redness, pain, swelling and itch. Most tamariki (children) who get a bee sting won’t need medical treatment. You can manage most mild bee sting symptoms at home.
An insect bite is usually a red itchy bump. There may be a blister in the middle. Sometimes insect bites are painful (especially spider bites) as well as itchy.
Tiny powerful magnets can be very dangerous if swallowed by children. If your toddler or child has swallowed a magnet, go straight to your nearest hospital.
If you think your child has been poisoned, call the New Zealand National Poisons Centre immediately on 0800 POISON (0800 764 766). Do not try to make your child vomit or give food or liquid until you have been given advice.
If your baby is choking, they may not be able to make any noise. For babies up to 1 year: If your baby is unconscious, do CPR. If your baby is conscious, find out what steps to follow.
KidsHealth NZ 