Parents have been urged to look for the signs of hand, foot and mouth disease in children as the virus spreads around the UK.
The illness, which can also affect adults, usually gets better on its own in seven to 10 days.
The NHS explains that the first signs of the disease are a sore throat, a high temperature and not wanting to eat.
After a few days, mouth ulcers and a rash will appear.
Dr Stephanie Ooi, GP at MyHealthcare Clinic, said cases of the disease are common during this time of the year, Birmingham Live reports.
She explained: "The condition is caused by a virus which manifests itself in a fever, mouth ulcers and blisters on the hands and feet.
"Signs of dehydration can include an altered level of consciousness, decreased urine output, sunken eyes, dry lips and mouth and pale or mottled skin."
The symptoms are usually the same in adults and children, but they can be worse in babies and children under 5.
The doctor warned: "If you notice any of these symptoms then see your GP for an assessment."
Dr Ooi added: "Children typically get a sore throat, loss of appetite and fever followed by the ulcers and blisters about one to two days later.
"Mouth ulcers will be sore so expect your child to be off their food. It’s important to ensure they are drinking enough.
"Paracetamol or ibuprofen can be used if they have a fever or the ulcers or blisters are sore.
"If the blisters are irritating, some parents find calamine lotion helpful.
"If there is an ongoing fever for more than five days, or an ongoing headache, then see your GP. And also see them if there is any confusion, drowsiness or extreme lethargy."
To help the symptoms, the NHS recommends drinking fluids to avoid dehydration, eating soft foods such as yoghurt and taking paracetamol or ibuprofen to help ease a sore mouth or throat.
