For parents, it can be hard to know when a child’s winter illness is something more serious.

Sepsis, a life threatening illness which can be particularly hard to spot, can cause kids to have symptoms like: blotchy or pale skin, a meningitis-like rash, difficulty breathing (leading them to grunt or suck in their ribcage) or be more lethargic than usual.

Yet sometimes even doctors miss the signs – and the results can be devastating.

Now, the NHS has announced a 15-minute blood test could help fast-track the diagnosis of children with potentially life-threatening conditions.

The test can distinguish between bacterial or viral infections much more quickly than traditional tests, meaning serious diseases like sepsis or meningitis can be picked up sooner.

It is being trialled in three hospitals this winter: Alder Hey Children’s NHS........

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