Health Update: Yellow alert

PARENTS of newborn babies who remain jaundiced two weeks after birth should ask their doctors to investigate urgently the possibility of liver disease, says the Children's Liver Disease Foundation. The foundation has launched a 'Yellow Alert' campaign, and says that one child dies each week from liver disease, which often goes unrecognised by parents and professionals.

A simple urine test carried out by a GP, midwife or health visitor can determine whether a jaundiced baby has the condition. Parents should also be aware of the signs of liver disease: yellow urine and pale-coloured stools.