Scots parents are being urged to look for signs their children might have hand foot and mouth disease which is rife in the UK at this time of year.
The viral infection initially presents with symptoms such as sore throat, high temperature, loss of appetite.
After a few days mouth ulcers, blisters on the hands and feet and a rash may appear, according to the NHS.
The illness, which can also affect adults but is very common in children, usually gets better on its own in seven to 10 days.
Dr Stephanie Ooi, GP at MyHealthcare Clinic, said cases of the disease are common during this time of the year, Birmingham Live reports.
She said: "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.
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