Paediatrics, by video or in person
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) in Children
The signs, the danger signs that mean hospital now, and how to see a doctor by video from anywhere in Nigeria.
Signs to look for
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) in Children
- In babies: fever, vomiting, poor feeding, irritability or not gaining weight
- Pain, burning or crying when passing urine
- Needing to pass urine often or urgently
- New bedwetting or accidents in a child who was dry
- Smelly, cloudy or bloody urine
Published Mezo prices. Each links to what the price covers.
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection of the bladder or kidneys, usually caused by bacteria from the bowel. It is common in children. In babies and toddlers the only signs may be a fever, vomiting, irritability or poor feeding, which is why a child with an unexplained fever should have their urine tested. Older children may describe pain when passing urine or needing to go often. A urine sample tested before antibiotics confirms the infection and shows which antibiotic will work. Most UTIs clear quickly with the right antibiotic.
Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- In babies: fever, vomiting, poor feeding, irritability or not gaining weight
- Pain, burning or crying when passing urine
- Needing to pass urine often or urgently
- New bedwetting or accidents in a child who was dry
- Smelly, cloudy or bloody urine
- Pain in the tummy, back or side
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor the same day if your child has a fever with no clear cause, or symptoms of a urine infection, so a urine sample can be tested before antibiotics. Go to a hospital emergency department now if a baby under three months has a fever, or if your child is very unwell, vomiting and unable to keep fluids down, drowsy, floppy, or has pain in the back or side with a high fever.
Treatment options
- A urine test, collected cleanly, before antibiotics are started
- Antibiotics chosen by a doctor, by mouth for most children
- Antibiotics through a drip in hospital for young babies or very unwell children
- Plenty of fluids
- A kidney scan for some children, such as babies or those with repeated infections
What it costs on Mezo
Starting cash prices for the treatments used for this condition.
Common Questions
How do I collect a urine sample from a baby?
A doctor or laboratory will show you. Usually you clean the area, take the nappy off and wait with a sterile pot to catch the urine, or use a special collection pad. Do not use urine squeezed from a nappy.
Can I give my child leftover antibiotics?
No. The wrong antibiotic, or the wrong dose, may not clear the infection and can hide it. A urine test first shows which antibiotic will work.
How can I prevent urine infections?
Plenty of water, not holding urine in for long, treating constipation, and for girls wiping from front to back all help.
Need Help?
A children's doctor on a video call, who tells you whether your child needs to be examined in person.
See a paediatrician by videoIf any of the danger signs on this page applies, go to the nearest hospital now instead.
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