Is my child's rash urgent?

First, the glass test

Press the side of a clear glass firmly against the rash. If the spots can still be seen through the glass and do not fade, this is a non-blanching rash and a medical emergency. On darker skin, check paler areas: palms, soles, inside the eyelids and the roof of the mouth. Keep checking a rash that does fade, as it can change. Do not wait for a rash if your child is getting worse.

Emergency signs

Tick anything that applies now.

The rash does NOT fade when a clear glass is pressed on it (check palms, soles, inside eyelids on dark skin)
Drowsy, floppy, hard to wake, or not responding normally
Stiff neck, dislikes bright light, or a bulging soft spot in a baby
Breathing fast, grunting, or struggling to breathe
A fit (seizure)
Pale, mottled, blue or very cold hands and feet with fever
Baby under 3 months with a temperature of 38°C or higher
Swelling of lips, face or tongue

Urgent: see a doctor today

Fever for 5 days or longer
Not drinking, or far fewer wet nappies
Baby 3–6 months with a temperature of 39°C or higher
Rash spreading fast, blistering, or very painful
Fever after mosquito exposure (needs a malaria test)
You are more worried than before, or feel unable to cope

No urgent signs tickedKeep watching closely and check the rash again with a glass. Trust your instincts: if you are worried, see a doctor.

Based on NICE NG143 (Fever in under 5s) and Meningitis Now guidance. Education, not diagnosis; it never replaces urgent medical care. Read: when a child's rash is urgent.