This book is about child health and disease, and the care of children from conception, through pregnancy, birth, infancy and childhood. It has been specifically written for all health workers who may find themselves concerned with the care of children at home, within the community or in primary health care facilities. Some who are working in district hospitals may also find it useful. The third edition keeps to the objectives and commitments of both the first and second editions but it is hoped that, with a broader editorial team, it will be even more relevant to readers throughout sub-Saharan Africa. All the texts have been updated and further additions have been made, hopefully without much increase of its volume Three chapters have now been included under' the subject of nutrition; malaria has been given a chapter on its own; two new chapters have been written on common surgical emergencies and palliative care and the subject of burns and poisoning has been included in a chapter on accidents and injuries .The book emphasizes the importance of the integrated management of childhood illness (IMCI) and applies its principles and practice where relevant. It also underlines the necessity of a community-based approach in the care of mothers and children and details its practice.