How to look after someone who is ill

Sickness weakens the body. To help someone who is ill gain strength and get well quickly, special care is needed. The care a sick person receives is frequently the most important part of their treatment.

If you are caring for someone who is unwell, remember to look after your own needs too. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap before and after helping them, eat regular meals and make sure you get enough rest. Ask for help if you need it.

Further reading

Where there is no doctor
By David Werner, Carol Thuman, Jane Maxwell

This manual is an indispensable resource for anyone involved in primary health care and promotion. Download free of charge from hesperian.org/books-and-resources Printed copies can be ordered by emailing [email protected] or writing to Hesperian, 1919 Addison Street, Suite 304, Berkeley, CA, 94704, USA. Available in English, Spanish, Portuguese, Creole, Urdu and Bambara.