The huge influx of refugees is a challenge to our society. Paediatricians in hospitals and in primary care are able to provide comprehensive medical care to children and adolescents of refugees and asylum seekers. Cultural-sensitive training for nurses, doctor’s assistants and physicians can further improve their competency. One needs time and motivation for voluntary services and first-aid health education for families in refugee camps. Sustainable health care for migrants can only be achieved by integrating them with equal rights into the regular national health system. Therefore primary care paediatricians have to open their doors to the newcomers. The DAKJ, BVKJ, DGKJ and DGSPJ societies should give priority to the health needs of children and adolescents of refugees and asylum seekers. The core messages of this statement are: 1. Paediatricians have to examine children and adolescents thoroughly and as soon as possible after arrival. 2. Vaccinations should be given as soon as possible. 3. Post-traumatic disorders should be recognized early and treated adequately. 4. Unaccompanied minors need special protection. © 2015, Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.

vaccinations Refugees Post traumatic disorder Cultural-sensitive training Asylum-seekers

pediatrician voluntary program primary medical care refugee vaccination medical care Article asylum seeker human child care health education public health