Traffic light system for identifying risk of serious illness in children aged less than five with a fever and the summary of symptoms and signs suggestive of specific diseases.
Green - low risk
Amber - intermediate risk
Red - high risk
Colour (of skin, lips or tongue)
Normal colour
Pallor reported by parent / carer
Pale / mottled / ashen / blue
Activity
Responds normally to social cues
Content/smiles
Stays awake or awakens quickly
Strong normal cry/not crying
Not responding normally to social cues
No smile
Wakes only with prolonged stimulation
Decreased activity
No response to social cues
Appears ill to a healthcare professional
Does not wake or if roused does not stay awake
Weak, high-pitched or continuous cry
Respiratory
Nasal flaring
Tachypnoea:
- RR >50 breaths/minute, age 6-12 months - RR >40 breaths/ minute, age >12 months