The scenario

Technician Vicky is approached by Katie. 

“Have you got a moment, Vicky?” asks Katie. “I need some advice about Jacob.”

“Yes, of course,” smiles Vicky. “What’s up with Jacob? He’s, what, four?”

“That’s right, but he’s not well, and I’m not sure what to do,” replied Katie. “He’s been a bit off colour for the last few days – a bit of a temperature and cough, nothing too bad, but the big thing is that he’s off his food. This never happens so I looked in his mouth and he’s got some spots. They’re looking a bit like ulcers now, but not like any I’ve ever had.”

“Has he got any spots anywhere else?” enquires Vicky.

“Funny you should say that, because when I went to him in the night – he’s not sleeping very well at the moment – and was holding his hand, I noticed he’s got a few spots on the sides of his fingers,” says Katie. “I got him to have a shower this morning, and I thought I spotted a few on the side of his foot, but it had got a bit steamy in the bathroom by then, so perhaps I was mistaken. Any ideas what it could be? He’s up to date with all his jabs so it can’t be measles or anything like that, surely?”