What should you know about cough, fever and rash?

A respiratory infection can cause cough and fever, while a rash may appear as part of the illness or after a medicine. A rash that fades when pressed differs from one that does not; hives are raised, itchy patches that can move from place to place. The combination does not establish a diagnosis, and a cough itself does not mean a particular condition is present. Colds and acute bronchitis are possible explanations, but asthma or another airway problem may also need consideration.

Record when the fever and rash began, whether the rash is itchy or painful, and whether it blanches under gentle pressure. Encourage fluids and rest, use fever medicine only according to the label or a clinician's advice, and avoid starting leftover antibiotics. Keep a list of all recent medicines, foods, and new skin products. Limit close contact while an infectious illness is possible, especially around infants or people with weakened immunity. A clinician should assess a new combination of these symptoms, particularly in a young child.

Get emergency help for trouble breathing, swelling of the lips or tongue, faintness, unusual sleepiness, a stiff neck, seizure, or a rash that does not fade with pressure and is spreading quickly. Seek prompt care when fever persists, the person cannot keep fluids down, breathing becomes fast or laboured, or the cough and rash are rapidly worsening. Do not wait for a routine appointment if the person looks seriously unwell.

Tell the clinician the person's age, temperature, vaccination history, recent travel or sick contacts, and every medicine taken recently. A photograph can help show how the rash changed, especially if it comes and goes.