Table 6

Severity assessment

Mild to moderateSevere
InfantsTemperature <38.5°CTemperature >38.5°C
Respiratory rate <50 breaths/minRespiratory rate >70 breaths/min
Mild recessionModerate to severe recession
Taking full feedsNasal flaring
Cyanosis
Intermittent apnoea
Grunting respiration
Not feeding
Tachycardia*
Capillary refill time ≥2 s
Older childrenTemperature <38.5°CTemperature >38.5°C
Respiratory rate <50 breaths/minRespiratory rate >50 breaths/min
Mild breathlessnessSevere difficulty in breathing
No vomitingNasal flaring
Cyanosis
Grunting respiration
Signs of dehydration
Tachycardia*
Capillary refill time ≥2 s
  • * Values to define tachycardia vary with age and with temperature.67[II]